Coolidge Park was the site of this year's Culture Fest. This festival provided the opportunity for our citizens to learn about the many cultures which make up our community. The cultures represented were from: the Philippines, Scotland, Ireland, China, and India. There were booths representative of Africa, Asia, South and Central America as well as our own Native American culture.
The first sight that greeted my eyes was that of children of all ages playing in the fountain. Their squeals of delight set the tone for what I observed next. Families both young and old gathered for a day of fun and learning...a mixture of many cultures and smiling faces.
Chattanooga CultureFest, photo from RiverCity Company website
On September 27th various groups set up tents sheltering displays which contained information about particular cultures as well as objects of art and clothing or accessories. Organizations, which support different cultures, were also present letting the community know what was available.
The stage was used to showcase the dances and songs of different nationalities. The participants wore clothing representative of their mother country. Some groups encouraged audience participation. In addition there were demonstrations of athletic prowess from the Scottish and Asian contingents. My students enjoyed the wall upon which they were able to place a sticker on the country of their origin.
Of course, face painting, a festival tradition, was available. One could also have his/her hair braided, or have a likeness captured in an oil pastel portrait. For those who like body art, application of henna was available.
It was an opportunity to learn to appreciate our uniqueness and commonalities as Americans. It was a time to reflect on how special our country is, to understand what it means to be a democracy, and to recognize what a fascinating blend of cultures our nation represents...We represent the world!
Guest blogger Susan Reid.
|
Thank you for visiting. This is the professional blog for |
|
Richard Smith Conventional, FHA, FHA 203k, HUD $100 down purchases, VA, Jumbo VA, Rural Development, Jumbo, FannieMae Homepath, Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). |
|
Stearns Lending, Inc |
|
Cell phone: 423-280-0345 Email: RSmith@Stearns.com |
|
Visit my website to inquiry about a home loan. |
|
Read my most recent articles in Scotsman Guide. |
|
This blog represents the opinions of Richard Smith. The posts and comments written on the blog do not represent the opinions or positions of Stearns Lending, Inc. |
Hi Richard, that looks like a wonderful and colorful festival. I went to and Arts and Crafts Festival today at the Rancho Bernardo Winery. October surely has turned to be month for a lot of fun get-a aways. Busy but still have time to visit some things and with the wonderful weather, it is a delight to be out and about.
Richard,
Thanks for the post. Great to see outlets for people to come together to be entertained and escape the pressures of the daily demands, if only for a few hours.
Nashville had teir international culture fair 2 weeks ago and it was a lot fun. I am sure Chattanooga's was also.
Bo
Richard, I always enjoy cultural festivals. It looks like you had a great one.
Hi Richard, That looks like a great event. I think it's interesting to learn about different cultures, especially great when it's in a fun atmosphere.