The 7th Annual Upper Darby International Festival took place on October 5, 2024, despite being rescheduled due to rain. Mayor Ed Brown expressed his excitement on social media, emphasizing the celebration of the township’s rich cultural diversity. Upper Darby, Pennsylvania’s sixth-largest municipality, showcased its diverse community with live performances, food vendors, art, and activities for families. The event featured the Parade of Flags, symbolizing the dozens of nationalities represented by the residents.
Upper Darby has a population of over 85,000, with more than 24% of residents being foreign-born. The township’s motto, “The World in One Place,” reflects its vibrant and diverse nature. Mayor Brown highlighted the festival’s role in demonstrating this diversity and expressed his gratitude for the hard work of his administration and volunteers.
As families meandered through the festival streets, the air buzzed with excitement. Groups of diverse young performers displayed their talents through traditional dances, music, and artistic expressions, captivating audiences and fostering a sense of community pride. The enthusiasm of these youth reflects a hopeful future for Upper Darby, demonstrating their commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and unity.
The Unity Rising Soccer Association, led by Paul Cantagallo, was one of the notable presences at the festival. The Association hosted a soccer activity for kids, encouraging them to kick soccer balls into a goal. Paul shared that the association, in collaboration with the Upper Darby Department of Leisure and Recreation, will launch a low-cost youth soccer league in Spring 2025.
The soccer event was a success, with organizers collecting around 30 names of interested participants. “We need about 50 players to officially launch the league and are actively exploring additional opportunities to promote it”, Paul said.
This league aims to foster community integration and offer a supportive environment for children aged 6-14, reflecting Upper Darby’s commitment to unity and community development through sports.
Festival-goers enjoyed a variety of food stalls offering international cuisines, allowing them to indulge in flavors from around the world. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, music, and the sweet aroma of diverse dishes, making it a true feast for the senses.
As the sun set on the festival, it became clear that this gathering was more than just an event; it was a celebration of community, culture, and hope for a bright future. The involvement of young people in both performing and volunteering at the Upper Darby International Festival underscores the importance of nurturing the next generation’s connection to their roots and fostering an inclusive environment.
The Upper Darby International Festival successfully highlighted the town’s rich cultural diversity and showcased the talents of its youth. With every performance and every smile, the festival reaffirmed that the future of Upper Darby is indeed bright.