FusionFest Returns Thanksgiving Weekend for a Kaleidoscope of Sights and Sounds

Community & Services

FusionFest, the popular free, two-day, multicultural festival is back! FusionFest draws people from more than 100 different cultures to experience music, dance, food, visual arts, spoken word, games and interactive activities.  Now in its fourth year, the festival features over 1,000 local artists, and will take place on Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 27-28) at the Frontyard Festival in front of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

The festival’s Opening Spectacle will be a fully staged presentation directed by Joshian Morales, alumni of the UCF Musical Theatre BFA Program. It will include a specially commissioned fanfare by composer Keith Lay. Brass and musical “sounders” made from train horns will cry out from surrounding rooftops to announce FusionFest is open, while dancers representing various cultures will celebrate with music and song provided by drummers, trumpeters and flags from around the globe.

“We’re excited our new Opening Spectacle is going to represent what FusionFest is all about from the very first minute,” said FusionFest Chief Instigator Terry Olson. “FusionFest is a kaleidoscopic fusion of aromas, sights, sounds, tastes, textures and fascinating short films that represent the diverse origins and heritages of our community.”

This year’s features include the Family Village, Fun & Games Tent and Family Art Tent. Additionally, the festival is partnering with Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, to sponsor a raffle for two air tickets from Caribbean Airlines. Guests also will enjoy festival favorites, including International Food & Marketplace, screening the MYgration Films in partnership with Global Peace Film Festival, and the Diversitastic! Choir.

“What we’re planning will show the excitement and innovation that can happen when a diverse community like ours comes together,” said Thali Sugisawa, managing director. “This colorful bazaar of live performances, music, food, interactive exhibits have been crafted to demonstrate the richness and depth of our area’s many ethnic traditions.”

FusionFest 2021 is free to attend. VIP Passports can be ordered in advance online or at the festival for a donation of $25 or more. For more information on festival times, the event schedule and obtaining a VIP Passport, go to the FusionFest website or call 407-836-5540.

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