By Patrice Wilson

Who doesn’t love a good festival?

And ourBridge for Kids has a good one coming up.

It hosts its 10th International Fall Festival from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15. This year’s event kicks off the celebration of ourBridge’s 10th year of supporting Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s immigrant and refugee community through out-of-school programming and community-based initiatives.

Its fall festival tradition began in 2013 with a Family and Friends Fall Fest that inspired families and staff to engage in a cultural exchange of food and fun. ourBridge has evolved in many ways since it first opened its doors. However, one crucial aspect has remained the same.

“We do our work with cultural humility, prioritizing the dignity of our families and the happiness and wellbeing of the kids,” said Sil Ganzó, executive director of ourBridge.  

A $17,000 Cultural Vision Grant from ASC is helping ourBridge support, celebrate and share the cultures of the immigrant and refugee families starting a life in Charlotte during its anniversary year.

“With the generous support of the Arts & Science Council, we will kick off our 10th year in the best way we know how – with music, joy, delicious food, community and laughter,” Ganzó said.

She went on to say that families and community members will experience “a feeling of welcoming and belonging at an unforgettable event that will bring light to Charlotte’s magnificent cultural diversity.”

Ganzó is most excited to see people building community at this year’s festival with “no agenda, no ticket fees, no stress; just neighbors sharing food, playing and getting to know each other.”

Don’t Miss the Fun!

ourBridge for Kid’s 10th International Fall Festival is one you do not want to miss! It boasts fun for the whole family with horseback riding, pumpkin carving, a petting zoo, international food, music, performances and so much more.

The free fall festival, supported by an ASC Cultural Vision Grant, takes place from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at ourBridge (3925 Willard Farrow Dr., Charlotte). More event details are available here.