Exclusive 8th Annual Peace Market event raises money with DJs Dave 1 and Questlove

Wednesday night in Chelsea saw more than 1,300 young, well-dressed people gather together to celebrate the 8^th annual Peace Market – a fundraising party supporting non-profit organization Seeds of Peace’s mission to help teenagers from regions of conflict learn how to make peace.

The event featured DJ sets by Dave 1 of Chromeo and Questlove from The Roots, as well as auctions, premium open bar and delicious exotic eats.

The Peace Market was held at Metropolitan Pavilion – a spacious and bright hall, which suited the event just right.

The party started with a funky set by Dave 1 and then exploded when DJ Questlove masterly mixed Nirvana, Michael Jackson, Kanye West and Jay-Z. There were plenty of stands with something for the taste of every drinker – from sake to whiskey and beer. Talking about food, it included a hummus taste-off by four vendors and I had my favorite in the face of eatery Moustache (which also offered Harisa – spicy paste of green pepper, cumin and paprika).

The guests enjoyed eclectic samples from the Indian cuisine, as well as falafel, Thai coconut shrimp over rice and… gourmet popcorn. Among the VIPs were Miss America and Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and Miss USA 2013 Nana Meriwether.

Peace Market also featured live and silent auctions offering vacation, arts, entertainment, spa and fitness packages, with all proceeds going to support Seeds of Peace’s programs.

Seeds of Peace’s objective is to empower the new generations of young people with the leadership skills and cross-border relationships to promote lasting peace in some of the world’s most tumultuous regions of conflict. The organization gathers students and educators in their International Camp in Maine and provides them with the otherwise impossible opportunity to meet their historic enemies. It also offers programs in hot regions in the Middle East, South Asia and the Balkans with year-round staff in Amman, Gaza, Jerusalem, Kabul, Lahore, Mumbai, Otisfield, Ramallah, and Tel Aviv.

Martina Dechevska

Photos: Ettore Lo Iacono

For further information about Seeds of Peace visit their website here.