Middle Tennessee Embraces Around-the-World Culture

by Christina Race, Regional Sales Vice President, ePremium Insurance Agency, LLC and Krystle Williams, Commercial Account Manager, BMS Cat

As the Greater Nashville Apartment Association gears up for its annual Trade Show: A Trip Around the World, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee would like to share the variety of cultural events held in Middle Tennessee.

African Street Festival

The African Street Festival will be held September 15-17, at Hadley Park in Nashville. The African Street Festival is a free music festival, marketplace, and journey through African culture. This year will be the 40th anniversary of the festival.

Nashville Oktoberfest

Nashville Oktoberfest will be held in Germantown from October 5-8. Nashville Oktoberfest is an event with something for everyone, including families. More than just a beer festival, it also has German foods and vendors, arts & crafts vendors, live German music, a Dachshund Derby, the second largest 5K Race & Run in Tennessee, and more.

Thai Lao Food Festival

Thai Lao Food Festival runs twice a year at Wat Amphawan Temple, 4880 Barfield Crescent Road in Murfreesboro. This is an incredible event that shines focus on not only the food but the culture. You will see some traditional outfits, live music, dance performances and cooking demonstrations. This serves as a fundraiser for Wat Amphawan.

Plaza Mariachi

Plaza Mariachi is a cultural immersion unlike anything else we have in Middle Tennessee. This facility has a focus on Latin culture and all the vibrant things that make it magical. They host a Salsa event every Thursday, which includes a dance lesson at 7pm, followed by an open dance floor until late evening. The atmosphere is electric and includes several food options for dinner, desserts and cocktails. It is set up like a mini mall with culture-focused vendors. There is even a kids arcade room for the young ones. This is most definitely not an experience you want to miss!

Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossom Festival is every spring in Nashville. It is a wonderful festival that showcases Japanese culture, food, dance and, of course, cherry blossom trees. This is an event that is seasonal but well worth the effort planning a visit. You can get involved as a vendor sponsor as well; they host a week of activities. This cultural delight is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and leave you understanding more about Japanese culture.