This year marks the 15th year of international celebration in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Fifteen years ago, a Russian immigrant named Vladimir Rossenshaky wanted to create a way for immigrants to show others their culture and promote their business. Today, we call this the International Festival and people come from as far as New York City to participate in the festivities.

Vaunda Brown, co-director of the International Festival is happy to see so many people celebrating diversity together.

“It always makes me happy to see big city folks coming to a small city celebration,” Brown said.

In the past, attendance has reached approximately 7,000 people, but Brown believes it could reach over 8,000 if the weather is good.

Over 35 vendors are selling their crafts and foods. All of these vendors have an international theme, allowing the people of Harrisonburg to discover and celebrate the diverse culture of our city.

Over ten different entertainment groups are performing. These include, but are not limited to, traditional Aztec dancing, an African drum choir, and even an international dog breed show.

The Aztec dancers are a local family who have performed at the festival in the past. The traditional music, costumes and drums make for an interesting experience. Many of their dances tell stories, and this year, one story is actually narrated.

HHS is also involved with this community event. The International Club, a new club to HHS, had a booth at the festival for the first time. They were part of the Global Village and introduced children and adults alike to international diversity by teaching children how to write in different languages with calligraphy ink; they also introduced kids and adults alike to international candies and cookies.

Key Club is also helping out at the festival, as well as student volunteers from the foreign language program.

“(HHS Key Club) is tackling the hardest job at the festival: coordinating the parking,” Brown said.

The International Festival is dedicated to celebrating the community’s diversity, but friendship and kindness is also extremely important as well.

“The peace, goodwill and love that we extend to each other is amazing,” Brown said.

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