Downtown Concord will transform into a global celebration Saturday, Oct. 3, as the Concord International Festival returns with food, music, dance and traditions representing cultures from around the world.
The free festival runs from noon to 6 p.m. and will feature around 80 vendors representing more than 55 countries.
First held in 2021, the festival is presented by El Puente Hispano in partnership with the City of Concord and has grown into one of downtown’s largest cultural celebrations.
“The Concord International Festival is truly one of my favorite days of the year,” said Sandra Torres, co-founder and executive director of El Puente Hispano. “I love seeing our community come together to share food, music, traditions, and so much joy. It is a beautiful reminder of how much we can learn from one another when we simply come together and celebrate.”
A celebration of a growing international community
As Cabarrus County’s international community has grown, so has the festival.
While El Puente Hispano organizes the event, the celebration extends far beyond Spanish-speaking cultures, giving residents from across the world an opportunity to share their food, music, art and traditions with the broader community.
This year will bring several new cultures to the festival, including representation from Germany and the Laos region of Southeast Asia.
The entertainment lineup features North Carolina-based performers representing cultures and traditions from around the world:
Mexico — Mariachi Guadalupano
West Africa — Drums 4 Life
Germany — Oops Polka Band
Laos Region — Mekong Icons
Brazil — NC Brazilian Arts Project
India — Pavithra Rajasekar Dance Group
Greece — Fidoloxia
Latin America — El Nuevo Tumbao
“What I love about the Concord International Festival is the energy you feel throughout Downtown Concord,” said Natalie Marles, co-founder and board chair of El Puente Hispano. “You can hear music from different parts of the world, watch beautiful cultural performances, and enjoy food representing countries like Mexico, the Philippines, Nepal, Haiti, Korea, Jamaica, and more.”
A taste of the world
Food, as always, will be at the heart of the celebration.
Fifteen food vendors will give visitors a chance to sample dishes from around the world, including a new vendor representing the Netherlands and returning favorites featuring cuisine from South Korea, Puerto Rico, the Philippines and Mexico.
Beyond the food and performances, visitors will find arts and crafts vendors, henna artists and cultural exhibits throughout downtown.
For the second consecutive year, El Puente Hispano is providing $200 grants to participating cultural booths to help cover the cost of supplies and materials, making it easier for groups to showcase their heritage through displays, activities and other experiences.
Revenue generated by the festival first helps cover the significant cost of producing the event, with much of what is raised going directly back into the festival. Any funds remaining after those expenses are covered support El Puente Hispano’s programs and community work throughout the year.
Founded in 2017, El Puente has grown into a resource for Latino families across Cabarrus County, serving more than 1,000 families each year through programs that connect residents with educational opportunities, health and support services, and other resources aimed at building long-term stability.
Taking over downtown Concord
The festival will stretch across much of downtown Concord.
Food vendors will line Market Street, while arts and crafts booths will be located along Union Street, with additional festival activities extending onto Barbrick Avenue.
The main stage will be located beside the former Cabarrus County Courthouse near the intersection of Union Street and Corban Avenue.
The Concord International Festival is free and will run from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3.
For more information, visit concordinternationalfestival.com.
We are looking forward to this! El Puente does a beautiful job organizing a presentation of cultures from around the world. Our wonderfully diverse community is celebrated and honored with performances, food, and art.
Wonderful to finally see diverse culture in this community and taste food from all around the world without even buying a flight ticket. 😊