Spartanburg, South Carolina The City of Spartanburg hosted the International Festival in Barnet Park, a decades-old event that allows people to showcase and learn about other cultures.
“Regardless of where you come from, we all have the same blood. I am Samuel from Haiti. I am here to tell you that we are all the same. “Look at all of the different countries,” said Samuel, a Haiti volunteer.
Every year, on the first Saturday in October, thousands of people gather to Barnett Park to celebrate various cultures from other countries.
“I love witnessing the dancing and the exposing. Cliff Dewberry, a festival-goer, remarked, “I love learning about different cultures.”
According to city organizers, this is a method for people to learn about the neighbors who live in the hub city.
“It just feels so encouraging now to be able to come together with so many people from around the world and experience their cultures all in one place at the same time,” said Kim Brown, Special Events Director for the City of Spartanburg Parks and Recreation.
Organizers stated that the tents dispersed throughout the park represent thirty countries. Paraguay is the “honored” country in this year’s event.
“I’m excited and delighted. “Thank you to the city for giving me the opportunity to represent my country,” said Paraguay volunteer Cesar Recalde.
Spartanburg’s International Festival offers a wide range of talent, including singing and dancing. The delicious cuisine was one of the festival’s most popular features, according to attendees.
People from many walks of life can be found wandering from tent to tent to learn about each culture’s history, languages, and cultural activities.
“I think it’s also interesting to witness the various cultures that exist in Spartanburg. “It’s like I never realized how diverse it is,” remarked festival-goer Nick.
Others find it meaningful to have their culture represented.
“Most people are unfamiliar with the Hmong people. We descended from China. I appreciate that we had more individuals here to represent, and it truly affected my heart,” said festivalgoer Paxton.
The city of Spartanburg stated they are already planning for next year’s event.
