Bucknell University & Lewisburg Downtown Partnership Announce Inaugural Community International Festival
LEWISBURG, PA – September 21, 2024: Bucknell University and the Lewisburg Downtown Partnership will host the inaugural Community International Festival, a celebration of the diverse cultures that enrich our community. Set to take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, this vibrant festival will coincide with Bucknell’s Family Weekend, transforming the heart of Lewisburg into a hub of cultural exchange and celebration.
This exciting event marks a significant milestone in fostering stronger town/gown relationships, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration between Bucknell University, the Borough of Lewisburg, and the Susquehanna River Valley region. The Community International Festival will feature an array of community groups, international student organizations, and global food vendors, alongside performances by musicians and artists representing the diverse cultures residing in our region. State College’s own Eric Ian Farmer and Friends will perform at the new Hufnagle Park Pavilion at 12:30 PM.
“Diversity is the cornerstone of vibrant communities and thriving economies,” says Lewisburg Mayor Kendy Alvarez. “This festival not only celebrates our cultural richness but also underscores the vital role that inclusive practices play in driving sustainable growth and fostering innovation. By embracing diversity, we build stronger, more resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.” The festival is made possible by the generous support of the Degenstein Foundation, Wellspan Evangelical Community Hospital, Open Discourse Coalition, Lewisburg Downtown Partnership, and these divisions within Bucknell University: the Office of the Provost, the Division of Equity and Inclusive Excellence, and the newly formed Center for Community Engaged Leadership, Learning and Research. Community partners such as Lewisburg Borough, Lewisburg Neighborhoods, Lewisburg Children’s Museum, CommUnity Zone, and Susquehanna University have also played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life.
In addition to being a celebration of culture, the festival also serves as a strategic initiative to enhance the recruitment and retention efforts towards workforce development. By showcasing the diverse and inclusive nature of our community, the festival aims to attract talent and foster a welcoming environment for all.
“We are thrilled to be part of the community’s first international festival and celebrate the many international students whose diverse perspectives greatly enrich our community. This festival offers a unique opportunity for our residents to experience a ‘trip around the world’ right here in rural Pennsylvania. Moreover, it highlights the vital role our residents play in enhancing the educational endeavors of these students through cultural exchange and open dialogue. This will also strengthen town gown bonds by promoting mutual understanding and provide a stage to showcase our town’s welcoming and inclusive spirit. My hope is that there’s a strong showing, and entire families come downtown to share in this variety of cultural experiences… all with none of the jetlag!” Jamie Grobes – Lewisburg Borough Council
The Community International Festival promises a day full of vibrant activities, cultural displays, and opportunities for the entire community to engage with and appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures that contribute to the uniqueness of Lewisburg.
Event Details:
Date: September 21, 2024
Time: 10am – 3pm
Location: Vedder Hall (St. George Street Side), South 6th Street & Hufnagle Park
For more information about the Community International Festival, please contact:
Kendy Alvarez
Borough of Lewisburg
Phone: 570-523-3614
Email: kalvarez@lewisburgborough.org
Katie Faull
Bucknell University
Phone: [570 577 1289]
Email: faull@bucknell.edu
Join us as we celebrate the diverse cultures that make our community a wonderful place to live, learn, and grow!
About Lewisburg Downtown Partnership:
The Lewisburg Downtown Partnership is dedicated to the economic revitalization of Lewisburg’s historic downtown and fostering a vibrant, thriving community.
About Bucknell University:
Bucknell University, located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, is a private liberal arts university that provides an exceptional education and fosters a supportive, inclusive community.
Morning Events (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
Location: Behind Vedder Hall
- 10:00 AM
Welcome from Kendy Alvarez, Mayor of Lewisburg, and Dr. Wendy Sternberg, Provost of Bucknell University - 10:15 AM
Student Performances (dance, music, theater) - 11:15 AM
Student Performances - 11:30 AM
Parade of Flags starts from St. George Street and moves down 6th Street past food trucks to Hufnagle Park - 11:45 AM
Food trucks start serving food. Bucknell student participants will receive up to three tickets that can be exchanged for food from the trucks. Additional food tickets are available
Afternoon Events (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Location: Hufnagle Park
- 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Community organizations display their information in booths - 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Outside vendors sell international wares in Hufnagle Park - 12:30 PM
Performances in the stage area of the park by student groups, student DJ, and a professional band - 2:00 PM
Last performance on stage - 3:00 PM
Clean up starts