Spanning the Globe

Bowling Green International Festival returns for its 36th year

With a mission to educate about the value of different cultures, the Bowling Green International Festival is a celebration of global music, dance, food, displays, demonstrations and activities. Three stages showcase talented performers throughout the day while food and retail vendors, dance lessons and activities provide more cultural experiences.

At the festival’s helm since 2001, Executive Director Kim Mason has seen firsthand how cultural celebrations create friendships, understanding and pride within a community. “Diversity is one of a community’s greatest strengths, and festivals like this play a vital role in building understanding, inclusion and meaningful connections,” she says.

Pushing musical boundaries

Back for their 12th year at the festival, Tuatha Dea is a crowd favorite. Self-described as a progressive Irish American band with a rock edge and a fearless attitude, the group’s high-energy performances blend Appalachian and Celtic cultures with a message of belonging.

“Our energy comes from an exchange between us and the attendees,” vocalist Rebecca Mullikin says. “We tend to try and pull the attendees into the performance with us. It’s all about unity for us.”

When not on stage, the members of the band enjoy meeting attendees and watching other performers. “The festival is all about learning that differences actually do bring us together through music,” she says.

Sharing vibrant traditions

Based in Memphis and Nashville, Danza Azteca Quetzalli is a traditional Aztec dance group making its first appearance at this year’s festival.

“Our group enjoys spreading positivity through dance while helping keep our traditions and culture alive,” says Xiomara Morales, the group’s leader. “Being part of international festivals allows us to come together with people from diverse backgrounds, share our heritage and learn from one another.”

During performances, members of the group wear intricate handcrafted regalia, with each piece carrying important symbolism. From the feathered headdress conveying power, honor and sacrifice to the rhythmic drum representing the heartbeat of the group, it is an impressive display of heritage.

Bowling Green International Festival presented by Service One Credit Union

Circus Square Park, Bowling Green
Saturday, Sept. 26
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rain or shine
bginternationalfest.com

Story by Laura McGill