The Ridgefield Multicultural Festival returns for its eighth year this weekend, continuing a tradition that began in 2018 to create a more welcoming community for all residents. Megan Dudley, president of the Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative, founded the festival after recognizing the need for greater inclusivity in community events.
This year's theme, “fun and games," offers opportunities for hands-on participation rather than passive observation. “We don't want our festival to be a place where you show up and you just watch things as a bystander. We want you to be part of the festival because it's your festival, too," Dudley says.
The festival will feature interactive activities including a chess party organized by the library and Mahjong, building on the organization's regular community Mahjong Nights. The Ridgefield School District has been involved in teaching students how to play Mahjong in preparation for the event.
Beyond games, the festival showcases vendors, food, and performances at Overlook Park, showcasing cultures from all over the world. Wink wink: some consider September to be the beginning of the holiday shopping season - and the Festival is an opportunity to find unique gifts.
Dudley's personal connection to the work of the Multicultural Initiative and the festival is rooted in her family's history. Her grandparents, Japanese Americans, were interned during World War II, leading to cultural assimilation that came down through the generations. “My mom never spoke Japanese. She doesn't even eat sushi," Dudley shared, explaining how this history motivated her to create opportunities for her own children to experience diverse cultures.
The Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative serves as the only nonprofit doing cultural work of this kind in Ridgefield. Their mission extends beyond the annual festival to address ongoing community needs, including supporting students who face racial incidents in schools.
Looking ahead, next year's theme will be “history and healing," focusing on bridging the gap between this area’s Indigenous roots, longtime Ridgefield residents, and newcomers.
The Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative is run by a board and a group of dedicated volunteers committed to holding space for each other and deepening relationships. They welcome new volunteers and community members at all times!
