The 9th annual Jackson International Food and Art Festival will be held at Jackson Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 23rd from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., with the popular parade being held at 11 a.m.

The festival’s theme this year is ‘The Heartbeat of Jackson’, recognizing and celebrating the diversity in the city. 

From 80 vendors in 2022 to over 144 this year, organizers for the International Festival are looking forward to their biggest and best event ever. In the past, the festival has been held in downtown Jackson, but due to the large growth is moving to the Jackson Fairgrounds. 

Dr. Sandra Dee who has been an organizer since the event began, says in 2014 the attendance was around two thousand. In 2022, with a turnout of over twelve thousand, the committee felt it best to make the move.

Representatives of countries from around the world display flags, perform dances of their culture and dress in costumes and colors of their countries. 

The parade is a highlight of the festival, second only to the food. With over 20 performers, there is also plenty of entertainment. This year, the children’s area has been expanded and will be set up inside with music and arts and crafts. 

Dee and Eduardo Morales have been the driving forces behind the festival.

“In order to respect other cultures, one must see the traditions,” said Morales. “The parade of cultures is most symbolic of the way the city of Jackson embraces diversity.”

While the community enjoys the educational and entertaining aspects of the International Festival, it has a much deeper meaning to those who are able to share their culture with so many people at one time.

Because of sponsorships and help from volunteers there is no admission fee.

The parade will air live on PBS WLJT 11 and will be recorded to air at later times.