The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County has a wonderful suggestion for making Sat., Apr. 15, more memorable than just the dreaded day that income tax filings are due. It’s the 2023 International Spring Festival (ISF), a lively, cultural event that overtakes the gym of North Penn High School, Lansdale.

The celebration of cultural and ethnic diversity includes art, music, performances, educational opportunities, and (one of the most compelling reasons to go) food.

And there is no charge to attend the ISF. Or even park.

Event History

In a 2015 interview for the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, Alan Gold, event board co-chair, explained its history.

The first ISF was the brainchild of Dr. Francis Jeyaraj, a Lansdale pediatrician who, according to Gold, ” … wanted to see all multinational segments of our community get together in a friendly and interactive atmosphere where we would learn things about other cultures through entertainment, exhibits and activities.”

Highlights

Entertainment is a cornerstone; therefore, Gold and his organizers plan a full day of concerts and shows. “We have the parade of nations,” he said. “It comprises students carrying flags and includes different performers, such as the universal African dance and drum ensemble and Chinese lion dancers and drummers.

“Some of these performances are so good, you’d expect to pay $25 or $50 just to see them separately. And we have them all for free.”

Culinary expertise is also a large part of the experience, with ethno-centric dishes being presented from Afghanistan, China, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Jamaica, the Philippines, Ukraine, Vietnam and, of course, the U.S., represented by the good, old-fashioned hot dog.

Given his long-term association with ISF and his involvement throughout the multiple facets of the celebration, it’s tough for Gold to cite what he enjoys most.

But he eventually settles on an overall view of ISF. “My favorite piece of the International Spring Festival is meeting the people during the course of the day. I see a lot of old friends. I meet new people. And I just enjoy coordinating the whole thing. And it’s a reward by itself, just seeing it go off so well.”

More Information

Specifics about the Apr. 15, 2023, International Spring Festival, which runs 11 AM to 5 PM, are at the website of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County.

_____

A look at a prior ISF edition, at which now-Gov. Josh Shapiro provided opening comments.