Charlotte Festivals
Festivals are defined as, a day or time of religious or other celebrations, marked by feasting and ceremonies. Charlotte residents feel that festivals provide a great time to get together and honor whatever it is the festival represents. Many festivals in the area are marked by a particular cultural group or to celebrate a holiday. Charlotte respects much diversity in the area and the festivals allow all groups to participate and learn through entertainment and great food. Family, friends and educators all take part in festivals around the Charlotte area and some travel across North Carolina for different festivals.
In an interview with a Charlotte family, both parents agreed that, "celebrating different cultures helps us show our children the importance of learning about other people". The family usually goes to as many festivals as they can in the Charlotte area. The mother of two little girls said that "Festivals allow us to spend time together as a family, while at the same time learning something new."
International Festival:
At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, the International Festival each September is a popular time of the year. Students gather to share different cultures and enjoy meeting new people. Also, many people from the community bring their families to campus for the day-long event. The booths are staffed by UNC Charlotte international students and members of Charlotte's international community and feature art, crafts and costumes from each participating country. Many booths offer international food for sale. In addition, the festival, which is family-oriented, offers a number of elements such as mimes and face painting designed specially for children.
Festival In The Park:
Since 1964, the Festival in the Park has been another festival bringing good music, good art and good times to Charlotte residents and visitors from around the world. This fun-filled event is designed to promote interest in the arts. It provides the opportunity for all to see, hear, and learn from more than 150 artists and crafts people who actively demonstrate and display their art.
Asian Festival:
The Asian Festival is a two-day event that features cultural displays, world class entertainment, artist demonstrations, delicious food, health and wellness screenings and activities from 12 Asian countries.
Yiasou Greek Festival:
The Yiasou Greek Festival began in 1978 and since then has become one of Charlotte's largest cultural events. The Greek Festival features cultural exhibits, authentic Greek cuisine and pastries, entertainment, art, shopping and more. 2007 represents the 30th Annual Yiasou Greek Festival that has taken place in the Charlotte area.