If you weren’t at Oak Park Mall this Saturday, you missed out on a taste of what makes Austin great.

The fourth annual Taste of Nations appeared to be a resounding success, with hundreds of local residents making the trip to sample interesting food and intriguing entertainment. The event may bring together people from many different backgrounds, but it is fast solidifying as an Austin tradition and something to look forward to every spring.

The volunteers who put on this extravaganza aren’t paid for their time, but they all work toward one thing: To bridge the gap between the cultures that make up area life. In an increasingly diverse community like Austin, that’s an important goal to have.

The Taste of Nations added to its mission this year by accepting donations for a local Sudanese advocacy group. Organizers say they will continue to support local nonprofits in the future.

The Taste of Nations committee is to be congratulated for its hard work, and we hope volunteers continue to put on great food and entertainment for our area for years to come.