West Tennesseans celebrate diversity at the Jackson International Food and Art Fest
JACKSON, Tenn.—An event that promotes cross-cultural engagement brought many residents of West Tennessee out for a time of celebration.
The 10th annual Jackson International Food and Art Festival celebrates all diverse backgrounds.
From clothes to kids games and music, this free event had it all.
“Food vendors from different diversities of cultures, different countries. A lot of food from everywhere in the world,” said Eduardo Morales, Co-chair, Food and Arts Festival.
This festival coincidentally fell on the International Day of Peace, which is what the festival hoped to bring to every participant.
“You know, regardless of the color or race, we embrace and respect all colors and races here. People come and enjoy it. They’re having fun,” Morales said.
The children’s section was filled with many activities for kids to do alone or with their parents.
“It’s a whole bunch of stuff in the arts and crafts area. A lot of stuff for kids and then they have a place where people who can’t speak English can learn in class. So it’s a lot of stuff and y’all should come next year,” said Zandria Cohill, participant.
“So this is our first time. It’s been really exciting. I loved walking around and seeing everybody and seeing the different dances and stuff, that was really cool,” said Emily Crutchfield, participant.
“My favorite was the Aztec dancers also and I just liked walking around seeing all the cool things,” said Benjamin Crutchfield.
Performances went on throughout the day from artist Daniel McClain to the Aztec dancers from Nashville, TN.
Local vendors were also selling merchandise such as shirts, hats and jewelry.
“Here at covenant keeper, we’re all about you knowing god’s promises and knowing they are never broken, so we just want you to wear it as a reminder. So regardless of what you’re going through, he has a promise for that and we just always want you to remember that and wear it as a reminder,” said Korean Harris, Founder of Covenant Keeper.
“Respect each other, you know, embrace each other. Make friends. That’s the purpose of the festival,” Morales said.
Jackson Transit Authority helped out the event by taking participants who were parked at the Carl Perkins Civic Center to the fairgrounds.
The bus ran every 15 minutes.
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