Get ready for FUN Fest & Noblesville Mayor’s Youth Council’s Culture Fair on Friday, April 12
Submitted by SERVE Noblesville
Noblesville is gearing up for a celebration unlike any other as it prepares to host SERVE Noblesville’s FUN Fest in partnership with the Noblesville Mayor’s Youth Council’s Culture Fair.
Both events will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 12 at the Noblesville Schools Community Center, 1775 Field Drive. This collaborative event promises to be a vibrant showcase of the city’s diverse cultural heritage and its rapidly growing community spirit.
Student initiation is at the core of this collaboration and event. This project was the vision of organizer Vaibhav Patel entering the Mayor’s Youth Council, and the essence of this project was captured by the young leaders of the Mayor’s Youth Council’s Diversity Focus Group.
“This project does not only represent a project that I’m profoundly passionate about,” Patel said, “but this is a legacy from last year that I wanted to expand upon.”
Highlighting the essence of Noblesville, organizers emphasize that the event is more than just a festival; it’s an opportunity for residents, both old and new, to come together and celebrate the unique tapestry of cultures that make the city so special.
With a history deeply rooted in small-town charm, Noblesville has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with nearly a 40 percent increase in population over the past decade. This influx of residents presents a unique opportunity to honor the city’s rich heritage while embracing the diverse perspectives and traditions that newcomers bring.
In addition to culinary delights, the festival will feature booths representing a myriad of cultures in Noblesville. (Photo provided)
“We have the unique opportunity to uphold the roots of this community that have nurtured and sustained us as we simultaneously embrace and cultivate the newer branches that now call Noblesville home,” SERVE Noblesville Executive Director Patrick Propst said. “This is the space we get to come together to celebrate all things Noblesville and showcase the No. 1 asset that makes our town so undeniably awesome: our people!”
“FUN” in FUN Fest stands for Food, Unity, and Neighbors. Food, often considered the universal language of community, will take center stage at the festival. From traditional dishes passed down from one generation to the next to cultural dishes shared among the delectable delights being offered, attendees will have the opportunity to embark on a culinary journey like no other.
“Food is the ultimate vehicle for bringing people together!” Noblesville Community Relations Manager Lexie Rock said. “It allows us to share our culture and traditions with others, provide nourishment, and step out of our comfort zones to experience new flavors and cuisines. I look forward to the Mayor’s Youth Council hosting their Culture Fair alongside SERVE Noblesville through these welcoming and fun events happening in our community.”
In addition to culinary delights, the festival will feature booths representing the myriad cultural facets of Noblesville. Attendees can expect to immerse themselves in diverse traditions, languages, games, and more, fostering a greater sense of community connection and belonging.
“We stand united with our neighbors – everyone is welcome who welcomes everyone!” the organizers emphasized.
The event aims to promote unity and mutual understanding among residents, regardless of their backgrounds or origins. The organizers hope to strengthen the bonds that tie the Noblesville community together by celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
“We want to expand our shared sense of belonging and ensure that it includes every individual – thus, every culture – within our diverse community,” said Patel, a junior at Noblesville High School. “When we are strongly connected, we stand united and are able to work toward our common goal: to keep Noblesville a convivial and welcoming place to live.”
From long-time residents whose families have shaped the city’s history to newcomers eager to contribute their unique perspectives, the festival invites everyone to join in the celebration.
“If your family laid the foundations of this community back in 1823, this festival is for YOU,” Propst said. “If you relocated here last week from out of town, this festival is for YOU. Please join us as we showcase what this place is all about.”
Booth applications are currently open to those interested in sharing their cultural heritage with the community. Whether it’s a cherished family recipe, traditional attire, or customs passed down through generations, organizers encourage residents to participate and celebrate the diverse mosaic that is Noblesville.
Hosting a booth at the Noblesville Fun Fest is free of charge, with organizers welcoming all contributions that promote cultural exchange and community cohesion.
As Noblesville prepares to come together for this momentous occasion, residents young and old eagerly anticipate a celebration of unity, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of their beloved city.
For those interested in hosting a booth or participating in the festivities, more information and booth applications can be found at servenoblesville.com.
Booth sponsorships to help families offset the cost of the food are also available; email info@servevillage.org to learn more.
Please plan to attend and celebrate all things Noblesville and the incredible people who call it home.