ALLENTOWN, Pa. – More than 40 cultures were represented at this year’s annual Culture fest, bringing together live music, dozens of vendors, cultural performances, sports and other activities.
The festival celebrates culture, diversity and community. Founder Michelle Zattoni said the event has a personal meaning for her.
Zattoni founded Culture fest in 2018, the same year her sister, Brenda Zattoni, passed away. “That was actually the year that my sister passed. And at first I took it hard, but I ultimately wanted to give the community what she gave me, which was lessons in cultural diversity, community love and acceptance.”
The festival included several forms of cultural expression, including Indian dancing, belly dancing, spoken word and mime.
Culture Fest was held for the second year at Cedar Beach. One of the major attractions was a basketball tournament featuring 10 teams.
“Definitely see a diverse culture. That’s a great part of this Culture fest. We have different teams and different cultures and everything going on.” said Michael Pina, the basketball tournament organizer.
Visitors also could dance, play in the sand and browse vendors, including Barry McCue, owner of Bear Box Guitars. McCue showcased one-of-a-kind guitars at the festival.
For Zattoni, the festival is about more than music, food, sports and entertainment. She said it is an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together.
“I just love to be able to see all the people celebrating each other and really coming together without bias.” Zattoni said organizers hope to expand Culture fest into a two-day event in Allentown next year if the festival gains enough support.