Fun Ways to Celebrate Diversity in Winston-Salem, NC
From its inception when the towns of Winston and Salem joined together in 1913, it’s been a place that embraces diversity of perspectives, backgrounds and life experiences. Today, the city continues to embrace diversity in all aspects, encompassing a broad spectrum of cultures, hobbies, lifestyles and interests. Here is a small sample of events and festivals that showcase and celebrate the diversity in Winston-Salem.
In This Article
International Black Theatre Festival
Previously known as the National Black Theatre Festival, this annual event has rebranded to reflect its global participants. Over the course of six days, it offers workshops, seminars, galas and more than 100 performances.
Juneteenth
On the surface, this is a day to commemorate the end of slavery in America, but it’s much more than that. The Juneteenth Festival in Winston-Salem is celebrated through history, music, dancing, education and community. A celebration in the heart of downtown, it includes an international vendor market, history displays, kids’ activities and much more.
SummerLark
People from all backgrounds gather for SummerLark, the annual benefit concert that supports cancer patients. Held at Bailey Park and hosted by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, SummerLark raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
Gears & Guitars
This unlikely joining of concerts and road bicycle races is a must-see. The community shows up to support the racing participants while simultaneously enjoying the free summer concert series taking place in Bailey Park.
Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors
This is the largest book event in the Carolinas, attracting big crowds and big names. Many famous authors attend, as do journalists, sports writers and others. It’s an extremely diverse group of voices, thought leaders and readers gathered in one setting. There are panels, workshops and a street festival.
Pride Festival & Parade
Thousands of people flock to downtown Winston-Salem to participate in the colorful spectacle that is Pride. There’s a big parade, live music, and people from all over gather to support the LGBTQ community. The event underscores Winston-Salem’s emphasis on acceptance, unity and respect for all.
1Love Festival
Art. Entrepreneurship. Music. Community. All of these are core components of the 1Love Festival, an impactful festival that highlights the African diaspora culture. Attracting incredible talent from near and far, the festival puts creators front and center, encouraging them to share their gifts and messages with all who attend.
Hispanic League Fiesta
Taking place each September at Truist Stadium in downtown Winston-Salem, the Hispanic League Fiesta has become a staple in the city’s annual calendar of events. This colorful festival highlights the vibrant food, music and entertainment of the city’s Latin community.
RiverRun International Film Festival
Every spring, the RiverRun International Film Festival showcases the best and brightest independent film submissions from across the globe. Its offerings encompass a huge range of diverse perspectives, experiences and talents, all curated from over 1,000 submissions. Storytelling reigns supreme across the vast mixture of genres, providing both insight, entertainment and education for all who attend.
Get to Know Winston-Salem
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