The 21st CultureFest will be 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 at Springfield City Hall Plaza. Admission is free.
Each year’s event adopts a slogan, and 2017’s is “e pluribus unum,” Latin for “out of many, one” and the motto of the United States, as emblazoned on our coins. It’s also represented by a logo of many different colored fish becoming and moving as one.
“We are a country of diversity, a melting pot and we put that out front and center,” said Nancy Flinchbaugh, one of CultureFest’s longtime organizers.
Credit: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO / EMILY DAY
Credit: CONTRIBUTED PHOTO / EMILY DAY
Live music and dancing are hallmarks of CultureFest and there are two stages worth as well as strolling entertainers who will perform throughout the day to showcase local marching bands and Americana performers to Egyptian, Chinese and African dancers to choirs and mariachi bands.
Flinchbaugh said CultureFest is a combination of fun and educational activities featured on the grassy knoll area. Activities, crafts and lessons will give kids plenty to do.
One of this year’s highlights will be complimentary head wraps and coverings.
“We’re trying to build connections among the people,” Flinchbaug said.
Not only does the event bring cultures together, it also gathers other segments of the Springfield community. Local colleges and schools and nonprofit groups can always be depended upon to volunteer.
CultureFest is also a place to experience foods you can’t necessarily find easily on Main Street or North Bechtle Avenue and merchandise not in the local big box stores.
Springfield cultural history can also be explored with free bus tours to the historic Gammon House, the area’s stop on the Underground Railroad.
One of the most satisfying parts of CultureFest for Flinchbaugh has been seeing interaction among the various cultures.
“People have liked and supported CultureFest and continue to come here,” Flinchbaugh said. “It’s a happy event, fun and family-friendly. It gets everybody together.”
For a schedule of events, go to https://springfieldohio.gov/culturefest/
WANT TO GO?
What: CultureFest 2017
Where: Springfield City Hall Plaza, 76 East High Street
When: Saturday, Sept. 23, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: free
More info: 937-324-7696 or https://springfieldohio.gov/culturefest/
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