Busy weekend of events all set across the Hub City

JACKSON, Tenn. — The first weekend of October will be another busy weekend across the Hub City.

The stage has been set and tents are up for the start of family weekend at Union University.

“It’s so fun to welcome families back to campus, especially some of them haven’t seen their kids since they dropped them off,” Union University Director of Residence Life Ken Litscher.

“I’m just so excited for them to be here,” Union freshman Marianne Rivera said. “I’ve just had such a good first month at school and I’m so glad to share it with my family.”

Families got a taste of campus life Friday and got to spend quality time with their students. On Saturday, Union Night starts at 5:30 p.m. on the great lawn with food trucks, an organization fair and fireworks at 8 p.m.

“We finally made it here,” Union dad Samuel Rivera said. “I have my oldest and my youngest here with me — can’t be happier.”

The third annual International Food and Art Festival also will draw a crowd Saturday in downtown Jackson. With about 40 countries being represented and free admission, organizers expect a big turnout. The annual festival will showcase Jackson’s diversity during the parade of cultures and musical performances.

“Because that’s colorful and festive, and of course I have to add that we have different performances including for the first time this year, the Chinese dragon is coming to town,” festival co-chair Dr. Sandra Dee said.

This year, the kids’ corner has been expanded and there will be inflatables and cultural arts and crafts.

“We want to share this with everybody,” festival co-chair Eduardo Morales said. “Hopefully they can come and enjoy and have fun.”

There are a few more events happening around town. The Dream Center is hosting its third annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at 1 p.m. Saturday at the LIFT Wellness Center in downtown Jackson.

There will be a formal ceremony honoring Korean War veterans at VFW Post 6496.