5 Multi-Cultural Events to Experience in Philly This Summer
The city of Philadelphia is renowned for its plentiful points of interests. Philly is rich in historic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, world-renowned art exhibits in the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, and how can I forget, cheesesteaks (I’ll take one whiz wit’, please).
There is so much more that Philly offers besides the Rocky Statue and Water Ice (Wooder Ice), there is a diverse community with rich cultures to discover!
Looking to experience something outside of the traditional Philly tourist scene? Check out these five fun events to help you soak up the sun this summer!
1. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration
Franklin Square, Philadelphia
May 20, 2017 (11 a.m.- 5 p.m.)
Join the Pan Asian Association of Greater Philadelphia in celebrating Asian American month at the 11th annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration! This festival features the cultures of Cambodia, Thailand, China, the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, and more!
If you are looking to learn about the diverse cultures of Asia or just love experiencing fun, family-filled events, this is for you!
2. Philadelphia Latino Film Festival
June 2 – June 4, 2017
The Caplan Recital Hall, Philadelphia
Every year since its creation in 2012, the Philadelphia Latino Film Festival (PHLAFF) exhibits the creative pieces of upcoming and established Latin-American and Latino filmmakers. This festival features different types of films including animations, documentaries, short films, and feature films.
Sit back, relax, and join PHLAFF this summer in showcasing the talent of Latin American and Latino filmmakers!
June 11, 2017 (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
23rd and South Streets, Philadelphia
Since 1975, ODUNDE has been celebrating the cultures of African-Americans and African people around the world. Highlighted on the South Streets of Philadelphia, the festival takes place around one of Philadelphia’s oldest, historically African-American neighborhoods.
The ODUNDE festival originated from the Yoruba people of Nigeria and West Africa and features a colorful procession from 23rd and South Streets to the Schuylkill River to honor Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of the river. Experience the eclectic mix of street vendors, food, and live entertainment with ODUNDE and you’ll be back every year!
August 12, 2017 (1 p.m. – 6 p.m.)
The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia
Experience a fun-filled afternoon with the Council of Indian Organizations in Greater Philadelphia in celebrating the Festival of India! The event highlights authentic Indian culture and features dance performances, music, and delicious cuisine. This event is for people of all ages, so bring a friend or your family or yourself and enjoy!
August 20, 2017 (12 p.m. – 8 p.m.)
The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia
The Caribbean Festival Committee (CFC) has been bringing Caribbean culture to the greater Philadelphia area since 1986, so join the CFC in celebrating it’s 31st annual Caribbean Festival at Penn’s Landing!
The festival features the diverse cultures of 15 Caribbean islands, ranging from Guyana to Puerto Rico and includes a marketplace, workshops, music, and food. All proceeds gathered from the festival go towards charity which includes aid to hurricane victims and scholarships to Caribbean/Caribbean American students.
Not only will you be a part of a fun and lively event, but you also will be donating to good causes; what could be better?
Whether you are young or old, a Philly native or tourist, these events will introduce you to a part of Philly you haven’t experienced before. I guarantee you that you’ll want to go back the next year, and even explore what else is out there!