LANSDALE — Hundreds got a unique glimpse into more than a dozen cultures Saturday at the 35th annual International Spring Festival.
Held at North Penn High School, the festival offered attendees a dizzying array of nationality exhibits, cultural dance and musical performances and international cuisines from across the globe.
“I’m proud to say that this is the largest multicultural, diversity and inclusivity festival in the state of Pennsylvania,” said Manish Ingle, president of the International Festival Foundation. “You can get to know different countries and get to educate yourself about what’s outside America.”
More than 20 nationality exhibits crowded the main gym, showcasing a range of artifacts, memorabilia and cultural heritage items. Representatives took pride in educating attendees about their respective countries.
“When we say Algeria, usually people do not know where to locate it, so we try to explain that it’s in north Africa,” said Thara Moussaoui. “And most people think that the only language in Algeria is Arabic, which is not true. The native language of Algeria is Berber. It’s an official national language, so we try to educate people about this.”
“There’s a lot to the culture, not just the food that most people may know about,” said Thao Nguyen of Vietnam, pointing to Bầu cua cá cọp, a traditional Vietnamese dice game played during the Vietnamese New Year. “I try to bring something unique about Vietnam that maybe not a lot of people know about.”
“Egypt is most predominately known for its ancient Egyptian culture with the pyramids,” said Raquelle Riad. “But it is a very rich and diverse country that has a lot to offer in addition to its history.”
“The city of Plovdiv in Bulgaria is the third oldest inhabitable city in the world. It’s where I’m from, and it is beautiful,” said Veselka Koleva. “We’re very proud of our history.”
“Ninety-eight percent of the population of Jordan is Muslim, but there are Christians in the country too,” said Matt Alverson, pointing to a Bible on his table. “The culture is very generous and welcoming.”
Representatives consistently touted the friendliness and hospitality of their cultures.
“We are a very political country. We care about the world,” said Mary Lou Arocea of the Philippines. “Filipinos are hardworking people. We are easy to assimilate all over the world. You’ll find us anywhere. We’re very friendly people.”
“We’re generous and helpful, especially to our neighbors,” said Miria Koleda of Poland. “We’re small, but we’re vibrant, and we have a history that is worth knowing. We’re represented all over the whole world, from Australia to Alaska.”
“We have a long history. People are very friendly and want peace,” said Henry Chen of China. “Some people are conservative, but people in general are very open.”
“We want people to know that we always welcome everyone,” said America Lara-Romero of Mexico. “We are rich in culture and have many things to offer, from the food, which is one of UNESCO’s cultural treasures.”
“And Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day,” added son Francisco Romero with a smile. “But we love the enthusiasm.”
The event also included a parade of nations ceremony. Hoisting their respective flags, international representatives wound their way through the school building before ending in the main gym. The ceremony concluded with speeches from state and local officials, underscoring the importance of diversity and multiculturalism.
“We all share the belief that Pennsylvania should be welcoming and inclusive and be a state where every person, every family can live with dignity and security, can thrive and raise their families in the way that they deserve to do,” said Valerie Arkoosh, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.
“This is a moment where the tide is turning, where our communities are becoming more diverse,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Jamila Winder. “One of the things that myself and my governing partners are focused on is ensuring that we have a Montgomery County that truly works for everyone, regardless of how you love, how you pray or what you look like.”
“The diversity that we have in our community is to be celebrated each and every day,” said state Rep. Steve Malagari. “The fabric of our nation is built upon that.”
Attendees were additionally treated to numerous cultural dance performances from Guang Hua Chinese Dance, the Coyle School of Irish Dance, the Yaretzi Mexican Dance Troupe and more. Rounding out the event was a bevy of cultural dishes, including Kimchi from Asian Snacks by Dilshad, pizza and pasta from Spatola’s Pizza and Italian Restaurant, dumplings from Chong Dumpling House and Italian cookies from Donna’s Delicious Delights.
