2 minute read
The East Meets West Festival Returns to the 919
919 | MORRISVILLE
Just 5 with Lauren Umbdenstock
Lauren Umbdenstock
Member Services Manager for the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Umbdenstock provides insight into the upcoming East Meets West event in Morrisville. EAST MEETS WEST Celebrating Morrisville, Wake County’s Most Diverse Town
"I became involved in the East Meets West Festival as the event coordinator when I joined the staff of the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce in 2016. I am proud of the evolution of the festival and am excited to be running the event for the fourth time this year, with the help of the East Meets West Committee and fellow Chamber staff."
Photo: 919 Magazine
"The Morrisville Innovation Foundation – a program of the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce – partnered with the Town of Morrisville to hold the first East Meets West Festival in May 2013, when both entities saw a need for a community event that celebrated diversity and Morrisville’s unique demographic. Key community and business leaders, Chamber and Town Staff, and local business owners were all integral in the festival’s creation".
"Festival attendees have the opportunity to cast their vote for their favorite restaurant at East Meets West via a ticket system. Upon entrance to the festival, attendees receive tickets that they then put in the appropriate jar to indicate their vote for their favorite restaurant of the festival. The restaurant with most votes, wins the “People’s Choice” award". What is new or different at the event this year?
"This year we have added an interactive passport program that allows attendees to travel through the East and West, stopping at participating booths and completing an activity for a stamp in their passport. Upon completion of at least five tasks, attendees can turn in their passport for a chance to win a prize. Activities range from learning Hungarian to taking a picture in a sombrero".
"Attendees can expect a day filled with cultural performances, crafts, games, and more. Play slap shot with the Carolina Hurricanes, or cricket with the Triangle Cricket League; get “fairy” hair or henna, or learn to belly dance or bhangra. East Meets West is the perfect place to celebrate Morrisville’s diverse community and have fun while doing it!”
EAST MEETS WEST 2019 Festival Details:
Local restaurants sell small plates of their specialties; festival stage hosts performances from groups representing our community’s many cultures; children’s activities; and music.
WHEN: 11 am-4 pm; Saturday, Sept. 14
WHERE: Park West Village ADMISSION: Free (with free parking)
INFO: morrisvillechamber.org
Photo: 919 Magazine
