Germantown International Festival

Come celebrate the diverse cultures that make our community so rich with friendship, understanding and goodwill.

Now in its ninth year, the Germantown International Festival is unique for our area. Thousands of our citizens—from across the city and surrounding areas—join in camaraderie, a thoughtful exchange of cultural information and great food and dance. The event is organized by the Rotary Club of Germantown and attracted more than 5,000 last year!
 

Here is where we need your help:

Your donation will help us keep the festival growing—we must move to the AgriCenter to accommodate all of the cultures that would like to take part. Twenty-five countries were represented and that number grows every year. Your support will also allow us to continue the tradition of free admission for our thousands of visitors. Our event attracts many students and their families. With the event offering such a beautiful forum for opening hearts and minds, it’s important to keep the event easily accessible.
 
This year’s event will be from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, August 26, at the AgriCenter. As tradition dictates, we will start with the Parade of Nations, a truly moving experience as each group proudly marches with their flags. The festival offers a hands-on way to experience the world. Many of the cultural programs offer opportunities for the audience to participate. And most booths have some kind of interactive feature, such as teaching guests how to write their names in different languages; dressing in authentic clothing; joining in traditional dances; or creating art reflective of the country’s traditions.


Festivalgoers are able to learn facts about the countries and appreciate art and music at info booths, where they can also buy artifacts and authentic foods. The day is also filled with dances and other cultural displays from many countries.

Vijay Surpuriya of the Rotary Club of Germantown leads the coordinating committee. "The main objective of the festival is to share various cultures with each other and with the local community," he says. "This is a way we can break barriers and promote friendship."

Thanks so much for your support! We look forward to you joining us on August 26 for a great event.

Countries/cultures that were represented in the 2016 Germantown International Festival include: Argentina, Brazil, Caribbean, China, Colombia, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Germany, Greece, India, Iran, Japan, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Palestine, Panama, Peru, Phillippines, Poland, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Syria, Turkey and the United States of America.