When Josh Barkan founded the Columbus Mac & Cheese Festival seven years ago, his primary purpose was to raise funds for cancer research . His affinity for the cheesy pasta dish was just a perk.
“I came up with it as a fun way to fight cancer and raise money,” Barkan said. “I love mac and cheese, and I think lot of people do, too. Who doesn’t like mac and cheese?”
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The festival, which takes place from 4-7:30 p.m. Friday at The Yard at Easton Town Center, will feature more than 15 local restaurateurs offering their takes on mac and cheese, plus live entertainment, a kids’ zone, giveaways and more.
The event is hosted by the Easton Community Foundation and the NextGen James Ambassadors Society, a group Barkan chairs that provides education, fundraising and support for Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer research.
Proceeds benefit the AYA cancer program at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC-James).