music parade tourism culture

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Home > Books > Mobilities, Tourism and Travel Behavior - Contexts and Boundaries

Music Event as a Tourist Product: Specifics, Issues, Challenges

Submitted: 09 June 2017 Reviewed: 28 September 2017 Published: 20 December 2017

DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.71338

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In this chapter, the authors describe the concept of cultural tourism using an example of event tourism, specifically music events on coastal tourist destinations. As an example, the authors describe Istria, one of the strongest tourist regions in Croatia, showing effective ways in managing events using a strategic approach and having well-organized stakeholders. They continue by providing an additional analytical presentation of issues relating to music events, as one of the key subgroups of the events. Furthermore, the authors give an overview of the challenges and specificities that are occurring today in the field of not only music event management but also event management in general by using, once again, the example of coastal tourist destinations. The authors conclude that the scientific aspects of cultural tourism and event management are of increasing importance since these events are becoming an integral part of the tourism product of each destination, and the experience, as well as the motive and outcome of each event, becomes one of the key categories in the life of a postindustrial man. For a better understanding of an event as a complex phenomenon, the authors advocate for further ontological research and a multidisciplinary approach.

• event management
• cultural tourism
• tourism destination
• music event
• sustainable tourism

Author Information

Aleksandra krajnović *.

• Department of Economics, University of Zadar, Croatia
• Faculty of Educational Sciences, University Juraj Dobrila of Pula, Croatia

Ivana Paula Gortan-Carlin

*Address all correspondence to: [email protected]

1. Introduction

Cultural tourism is one of the oldest forms of travel and one of the most significant and fastest growing components of the tourist phenomena. According to UNESCO, cultural tourism is the area with the most rapid international growth of industrial tourism. In this chapter, authors try to answer to some of the contemporary issues and challenges that appear in the field of cultural tourism, both in theoretical discussions and in practical performance. The authors offer a critical analysis of the complex phenomenon of event tourism as a segment of cultural tourism, specifically music events and their role in an integrated tourism product of tourism destinations. The authors aim to contribute to an easier and more efficient understanding of the concept of cultural tourism, specifically event tourism. As the geographical area of observation, Croatia is taken as a tourist destination on the rise and examples of tourist events are taken from Istria, which generates a third of Croatian tourist traffic as a tourist region. We should not ignore the concept of cultural geography [ 1 ]. The authors, namely, consider that the tourist event is tightly bound by the only “tissue” of tourist destination.

This chapter contains a critical analysis of the concepts of cultural tourism, events tourism, and music events. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the authors provide a brief overview of the key concepts, classifications, and conceptual frameworks of event tourism, taking for example music events. The second part of the chapter deals with a “practical,” managerial aspect and focuses on events tourism. Events, as analyzed by the authors, should be treated as a specific tourist product, which needs to be systematically and strategically planned and managed. In the third part of the chapter, the author presents the key challenges for further research in the field of cultural tourism, specifically events tourism, using the example of tourist destinations. The authors attempt to provide a scientific and professional contribution to the most important issues and challenges present in the field of event tourism.

For the purpose of this analysis, the following methods were used: heuristics, the analysis of relevant scientific literature, the analysis of available strategic documents, primary research through cultural tourism workshops, and direct and participatory observation based on the experience of both authors in managing cultural tourism in coastal tourism destinations.

Croatia is presented as a case study in the chapter. Croatia is a country abounding with the protected material and nonmaterial cultural heritage of UNESCO (see more on: http://www.croatia.hr/en-GB/experiences/culture-and-heritage ). A special motive for the research that authors express for writing this chapter is, what they believe is also a challenge for many other authors who are dealing with this issue, that cultural tourism, in a significant way, preserves and valorizes the material and immaterial cultural heritage and regional and national identity of the tourist destination.

2. Cultural tourism and event tourism: characteristics and specificities

The following analysis describes the notion and the concept of cultural tourism and event tourism as one of its segments. The examples used are music events.

2.1. Cultural tourism as a platform for event tourism

Cultural tourism is the kind of tourism that is stimulated by culture. The term culture signifies the totality of material and spiritual goods, the ethical and social values created by humanity [ 2 ]. In order to promote and develop cultural tourism a cultural attraction within a particular destination is needed.

World Tourism Organization (WTO) defines cultural tourism as the form of tourism that “includes all the aspects of the trip through which people learn about the mentality and lifestyles of those with whom they meet during their stay [ 3 ].” The Association for Tourism and Leisure Education (ATLAS ) defines cultural tourism as “the movement of people to cultural attractions that are far away from their place of residence, with the intent to collect information and new experiences in order to satisfy their cultural needs [ 3 ].”

tourism for youth people, where the cultural and educational aspects are predominant e.g., study trips, trips for learning a foreign language, international camps;

exchanges of artists, writers, and the events celebrating this exchanges;

rural tourism, holidays to the families of the visited region/country;

holidays in the villages integrated in the cultural local environment;

attendance at religious festivals, national, and international festivals;

cultural circuits, which includes visits to museums, historical sites, and attending various cultural events;

pilgrimages to historical and religious places and monuments.

Compared with the other forms of tourism, cultural tourism has a number of features arising from its specific content, its manifestation manner, and its evolutions and involutions in this area. Moreover, cultural tourism is positioned at the intersection between tourism and culture, borrowing some of the characteristics from both of the two phenomena [ 3 ].

cultural tourism has a complex content, due to the special services that are included e.g., special services offered by cultural institutes (museums, churches and monasteries, festivals, shows, various cultural events, etc.);

cultural tourism targets a clientele with a certain level of culture and education or which is being educated;

cultural tourism is generally a more expensive product, but not a luxury one;

compared with other forms of tourism, cultural tourism seasonality is less accentuated [ 3 ].

2.2. Event as a tourist attraction and the specificities of event tourism

The term attraction [ 4 ] means the power that attracts, the power of attraction, or what attracts to, great interest (in the case of events, it can be a performance, a concert, etc.). According to Kušen, “tourist attractions are the basic tourism resources of every tourist destination that determine and condition the tourist offer and the development of tourism in general [ 5 ].” Their concept is determined by tourist needs, motivations, and activities. All tourist attractions are strongly spatially marked (emphasized by authors), regardless of whether they are part of a specific space or their occurrence that is strictly spatially defined.

An attraction is often associated with the term event . The English noun event means “happening, phenomenon, consequence, competition.” This word was taken over and is used as such in the Croatian language as well. In the Croatian foreign word dictionary [ 6 ], the word event is not mentioned, meaning that the word is in use only after the 1990s. An event can be a ceremony, a sports competition, a congress, a conference, an exhibition, a festival or a party, or something that happens or is regarded as happening, or an occurrence, especially one of some importance [ 7 ]. It is an event that can take place in different fields. The word event is often used for notions such as event management and event organization [ 8 ].

When debating the categorization of events, a thematic approach is then taken by assessing literature specific to the four general categories of events and related venues (i.e., business, sport, festivals, and entertainment) that dominate praxis and have attracted the most attention from researchers [ 9 ].

In Kušen’s overview of the usual types of individual and mass tourist attractions, music is a part of the cultural and historical attractions, located in the subgroup Manifestations (festivals, performances) and Culture of Life and People (folklore and tradition). However, Kušen points out that this basic classification does not extend to the basic tourist attractions and because of that he further contributes with a detailed classification of tourist attractions. When it comes to music, only those subgroups of attraction according to Kušen’s division that directly or indirectly touch on music are stated. Attractions belonging to the folklore group, for example, are classified as a subgroup of possible attractions derived from the people: folk music, folk dances, customs, legends, urban legends, and “UFO legends,” He continues by dividing the group of cultural manifestations into the following subgroups: games, festivals, presentations, exhibitions, art colonies, gatherings, and entertainment programs, while at the same time dividing the group of cultural and religious institutions into museums, galleries, exhibition spaces, shrines and locations of pilgrimage, monasteries, theaters (including the opera, national theater, drama theater, comedy, variety, cabaret, and specialty theaters) as well as concert halls. Regarding the notion of motivation or activity of a visitor who participates in the event, Kušen cites watching and listening, experiencing, learning the professional and scientific education and photography.

Events can attract tourists (and others, such as sponsors and the media) who otherwise might not visit a particular place; the spending of event tourists generates economic benefits; event tourism can be leveraged for maximum value in combatting seasonality of demand, spreading tourism geographically, and assisting in other forms of urban and economic development; portfolios of events can be designed for maximum impact, especially by appealing to multiple target segments.

Events can create positive images for the destination and help brand or reposition cities.

Events contribute to place marketing by making cities more livable and attractive.

Events animate cities, resorts, parks, urban spaces, and venues of all kinds, making them more attractive to visit and revisit, and utilizing them more efficiently.

Event tourism acts as a catalyst for other forms of desired development (including urban renewal, community capacity building, voluntarism, and improved marketing), thereby generating a long-term or permanent legacy.

3. Event as a cultural product integrated into the integrated tourism product of a destination

The focus of this segment of the chapter is primarily on the destination-related issues of event tourism. The authors also present the results of the primary research and place them within the context of the previous research within this area.

Cultural tourism and event tourism as its integral part should be based on the principles of sustainable tourism development. The UNESCO World Heritage and Sustainable Tourism Program represents a new approach based on dialog and stakeholder cooperation where planning for tourism and heritage management is integrated at a destination level, the natural and cultural assets are valued and protected, and appropriate tourism developed [ 10 ].

Promote competitiveness and sustainability

Improve the regulatory environment e. g., facilitate new starts

Enhance the understanding and visibility of tourism

Promotion of European destinations, i.e., European Destination Tourism Portal ( www.visiteurope.com )

Take a holistic and integrated approach

Plan for the long term

Achieve an appropriate pace and rhythm of development

Involve all stakeholders

Utilize best available knowledge

Minimize and manage risk (precautionary approach)

Promote negative impacts, e.g., externalities should be included in costs (polluter pays principle)

Set and respect limits, where appropriate, e.g., apply carrying capacity models

Undertake continuous monitoring

This Agenda…has an emphasis on small-scale, locally managed, and controlled tourism, which has a social responsibility [ 11 ].

Within the context of tourism and the tourism system, events comprise a key element in both the origin area (i.e., events are an important motivator of tourism) as well as within the destination area (i.e., events feature prominently in the development and marketing plans of most destinations) [ 12 ]. Events are both animators of destination attractiveness but more fundamentally as key marketing propositions in the promotion of places, given the increasingly global competitiveness to attract visitor spending. To use Leiper’s analogy of the tourism system, events have become a core element of the destination system (emphasized by the authors) where accommodation, attractions, transport, and ancillary services have been utilized or specifically developed (e.g., the provision of infrastructure for mega events) to enhance the destination offer, thereby expanding the tourism potential and capacity of destinations beyond a narrow focus on leisure-based tourism (e.g., holidays).

Recent research (e.g., Connell, Page, & Meyer) also demonstrates the critical relationship that exists between events as a bridge between the market for visitor attractions created by tourists and the use of events to fill the gap left in the off-peak season by a seasonal drop in tourism demand, as residents and domestic visitors provide a substitutable form of demand stimulated by events. In this respect, events have a wider remit than destination-related tourism although the focus of this part of chapter is primarily on the destination-related issues of event tourism and the studies associated with this area.

To be simultaneously successful in all these different areas at the level of tourist destinations requires a global approach, focused on tourist satisfaction and based on the principles of sustainable development, which is described as integrated quality management (IQM). IQM model serves as a support for the activities of restructuring and repositioning of the tourism destination whose task is to ensure a higher level of quality elements in the structure of the tourism product.

A more intense pressure of the competition both on the supply and on the demand

A delayed emergence and development of quality management in the service sector that occurred not earlier than in the 1980s

A complex nature of the overall quality management of tourist destinations

The IQM approach implies an equal satisfaction of the needs of the visitors, the local population and everyone involved in the tourism sector. The European Commission’s integrated quality management is defined as a “systematic effort for internal and external quality, i.e., short-term economic progress and long-term local development [ 13 ].”

The European Commission has conducted separate studies and has adopted the appropriate Directives, separately for the urban, coastal, and rural tourist destinations [ 14 ], taking into account their specificities, and adapting the management approach accordingly. The European Commission points out that the coastal tourist destinations “do not just include destinations right next to the sea, but destinations that have been identified, recognized, and promoted as homogeneous entities where coastal tourist activities are the primary attraction for the visitor.” [ 15 ].

Figure 1 shows a different approach to the event portfolio depending on the type of destination and in conformance to the aforementioned classification of tourist destinations according to the EU Directives using music events as examples. Urban destinations should offer all genres of music offered in urban destinations, with the repertoire mostly consisting of globally relevant authors and composers, and to a lesser degree consisting of autochthonous or locally characterized events. In the coastal area, due to the frequency of tourists of other cultural interests, the offer should be varied and of equal proportion, both popular and autochthonous. Within rural areas tourism as well as event tourism should be developed around the autochthone qualities of the destination that is being visited, promoting a tourist offer based on autochthone elements such as folklore, classical, ecclesiastical, and entertaining music.

Figure 1.

The link between the type of tourist destination (urban, coastal, rural) and the genre of music events. Source: Research conducted by the authors.

4. Specifics and importance of strategic event management on the example of a coastal destination: case of tourist cluster of the northwestern Istria

In this section, the authors present a practical (professional) approach to the managing of events in tourism. It should be noted that in this field, as well as in the wider context of management of destination tourism, the crucial approach is that of the stakeholder, making the use stakeholder theory unavoidable [ 16 – 18 ].

It is interesting to mention a very important study of Getz and Page [ 9 ], where the authors define the research themes on planning and managing event tourism. They state the planning and managing of event tourism as one of the key research topics. This issue primarily refers to the practical, economic-management aspect of event tourism. This is also the research focus of this segment of the chapter, with the authors agreeing with the conclusions of earlier authors about the management of tourism events being a long-term more than being a short-term issue, as well as the key importance of the stakeholder approach together with the need for a permanent and systematic long-term event management and their strategic planning [ 18 ]. Therefore, by referring to and further developing the Getz and Page view, the authors propose the following thesis: planning for a long-term or permanent legacy is overtaking short-term measures of economic impact in justifying event tourism, halo effects relate to the short-term image boost, quantum leap means using events to accelerate growth, capacity building requires consideration of cumulative, sustainable benefits, repositioning stems from the exploitation of events in rebranding a destination, and leveraging applies to a variety of methods intended to increase visitor spending and longer term trade or development gains [ 9 ].

What follows are the results of the research that will try to provide certain answers to key research questions regarding contemporary event tourism within a defined field of event tourism management. The geographic area used for the research is Istria, a Croatian tourist region that accounts for one-third of Croatia’s tourist traffic and which invests significant resources into event tourism, developing it as part of an integral product of coastal and rural tourist destinations.

This region is particularly interesting for studying due to the fact that already with the first Tourism Development Master Plan in 2002, it was divided into tourist clusters , the lower level strategic organizational units, which in part independently decide on the development of their tourist area, based obviously on the unambiguously defined key strategic directions for the entire region of Istria.

The research also includes a time component. The results of the research are presented in Table 1 , with the first column referring to the base year 2008, which consists of still unpublished primary research. The research refers to workshops on cultural tourism held in two locations (Novigrad and Umag) on May 27, 2008 [ 19 ]. The workshops were conducted as part of a preaccession EU project, called Cultural tourism in Croatian Regions . It is necessary to point out that one of the co-authors of this research participated as a moderator at the mentioned workshops. The second column of the Table 1 shows what has been done based on observations, deep interviews with the managers of the presented tourist clusters (2016), and the research carried out in 2016/2017 by Frank Medica needed for the study of the impact of the organizational culture in a cluster on the development of a tourist destination [ 20 ]. As a microarea, the tourist cluster of the northwestern Istria is being observed, together with the organization of stakeholders and tourist communities, which has the most developed strategic approach to managing event tourism in Croatia. By comparing the presented periods, a conclusion can be made about the progress in the field of event management, as well as cultural tourism in general in this area. The cluster consists of tourist communities of the town of Umag, Buje and Novigrad, as well as the Brtonigla municipality. As a separate methodological approach, the professional experience of both authors within institutions and organizations dealing with the managing of tourist events in the explored area, especially in the cities of Umag and Novigrad, is also being emphasized at the time of the observation (the base years within the research).

Table 1.

Comparative SWOT (Strenghts, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of basic assumptions for the development and for the achieved level of development event tourism in tourist destinations of the northwestern tourist cluster in Istria–selected topics * .

For the purpose of this paper, only a few selected topics relating to this research field are being presented, while keeping in mind its complexity and the need for a much deeper analysis.

Source: Research conducted by the authors based on a stakeholder workshop on a Tourism cluster level (2008), Tourism cluster of the northwestern Istria, Croatia.

Generally, it can be concluded that significant progress has been made in the field of event management in the tourism cluster of the northwestern Istria, which is manifested primarily in the systematic and strategic orientation of tourism development planning, as well as event tourism, based on the cooperation of key stakeholders. This is probably the key reason for the achieved tourism results: increased tourist traffic in the pre- and postseason, a trend headed by the cluster in Istria. However, already from this short analysis, it is obvious that there are still numerous additional opportunities for improving and developing event tourism in general, in this cluster, region and beyond, which proves that the development of tourism events is a difficult and complex process. It should be emphasized that within the presented cluster, a general consensus has been established with the event portfolios planned out in advance, and that they are based on the Tourism Development Master Plan of the entire region, and that the cluster conforms to the interests of several groups of stakeholders (in particular, tourist communities, large hotel chains, small stakeholders, local politics), while the key events of the cluster are being defined and structured according to their importance, as well as the participation of individual tourist communities in their funding. Although this model needs to be further developed and perfected, it can serve as a good example to others, as it has been proven that it has already achieved the desired effects, most of all an increase in tourist traffic within the cluster that uses this approach in relation to the other, while also increasing the strength and recognition factor of the cluster.

Some research shows that such efforts to achieve this type of consensus (workshops, strategic conferences, etc.) contribute to the development of additional cohesion among the stakeholders [ 20 , 21 ]. One of the main thesis of the previously described principle and system Integrated Quality Management (IQM) has also been mentioned, with the directives recommending a stakeholders’ approach and a strategic planning of tourism as a platform for a sustainable tourism development in tourist destinations and the construction of an integral tourism product, whose event is its integral part, connected to the “tissue” of the destination itself, especially for those in the coastal and rural areas.

It is of great importance to consider the distinction of specificities, according to the already mentioned classification of urban, coastal, and rural tourist destinations. This can also serve as a guide to the possible designing of joint events (coastal-rural), which has already been partially done as presented in the example of the addressed cluster. Similarly, this should be taken into account when doing scientific research since the event portfolio, the planning of the events and their organization, is significantly different for urban destinations (big cities, metropolises) than it is for smaller urban and social contexts: the coastal and rural tourist destinations.

5. Issues and challenges in event tourism

Numerous authors have claimed that event tourism is a subfield of both event and tourism studies. The field of event studies, reviewed by Getz, depicts the expanding area of event management and the wider contribution of social sciences to this interdisciplinary area of study [ 9 ].

The most comprehensive overview of key issues and research areas was presented by Getz and Page in the aforementioned study.

Research themes on the experience and meaning of event tourism

Research themes associated with the antecedents of event tourism

Research themes on planning and managing event tourism

Research themes associated with dynamic processes in event tourism

Research issues associated with the economic effects of events

Studies of resident and social impact on event tourism

Future research themes on the personal, social, and cultural outcomes of event tourism

Future research issues on environmental outcomes and event tourism (our emphasis)

The question of small and new events. The authors agree with Getz and Page that although all types of planned events have tourism potential, including even the smallest wedding or reunion (see also [ 22 ] Kruger, Saayman & Ellis, 2014), larger events dominate in the literature and in event tourism development. The authors of this text believe that it is important to conduct further research into different types of event portfolio. Although the classification into four basic groups of events (business, festival and culture, entertainment, and sport) is usually used by academics, it is debatable how precise it really is and whether it should be improved. For instance, in the here-analyzed location, the region of Istria in Croatia, gourmet events feature heavily, even though they are not included — or at least not explicitly named — in this generally accepted classification. Furthermore, an objection to such a classification could be expected from other disciplines. The authors prove this in the present article using the example of music, which is here “shared” between two groups — festivals and culture and entertainment, which certainly does not add to a better understanding or, in more practical terms, better management of cultural events as regards music.

Based on the review of the latest literature and on the practice of destination management, as well as on professional training in the field of destination management in the analyzed example (for example, Experta Business Academy, Zagreb, [ 23 ]), a certain amount of confusion and somewhat differing views on event tourism and event management can be noticed. The need, therefore, arises for a more comprehensive and modern view on this research area, with concepts, definitions, and classifications delineated in a clearer way. To this effect, the Event Management Body of Knowledge (EMBOK, www.embok.org ) and Meeting and Business Event Competency Standards (MBECS, www.mpiweb.org/MBECS ) projects present a praiseworthy endeavor. But, as stated by Getz and Page, “both these projects lend themselves to the development of curriculum and certification processes, but do not establish knowledge or the means to acquire it [ 9 ].”

It is generally accepted that tourist boards (or DMOs in some countries) should use the event portfolio method as a starting point in event management. The crucial question in using this method seems to be which kind of events (according to their contents, groups of events, subgroups, the targeted segments of the market, etc.) should be included in the portfolio. Ziakias and Costa also agree with this, stating that “Although host communities have begun to capitalize on the portfolio of recurring events to achieve a range of benefits, there is a knowledge gap, scarce research, and empirical evidence about the event portfolio phenomenon” [ 24 ].

The key issue, in the view of the authors of the present article, is stakeholders’ consensus or the possibility of a conflict among them. This was also pointed out by Andersson and Getz: “The extent to which festivals can function as sustainable attractions, while fulfilling their social and cultural roles at the community level, is an issue of considerable importance. In this context, sustainability will often depend upon the political and tangible support of key stakeholders” [ 25 ].

In regard to event tourism management, a consensus has been reached concerning the necessity of the stakeholder theory application. However, the key challenge to the practical application of this theory is found in the strong interaction of different stakeholders and their interests, which sometimes create synergy and sometimes breed antagonism. For example, certain authors have previously pointed out that “Stakeholder theory stresses the interactions of power, legitimacy and urgency” [ 26 ]. It is precisely these characteristics, and the “struggle” among stakeholders at different power levels in particular, that frequently allow for a balance of power within the stakeholders’ network, which certainly reflects on the strategy and policies of event management, as well as on the event portfolio itself as the core category in the given context.

To this effect, in an interesting study titled Cultural Tourism: The Partnership Between Tourism and Cultural Heritage, the authors Bob McKercher and Hilary Du Cros stress that “there is underperformance of many cultural tourism activities” (p. xi), as they call for the efforts to bridge the gap between cultural heritage management and tourism (p. xii). In their publication, authors also present and describe different degrees/levels of cooperativeness or conflict among individual stakeholders in cultural tourism, primarily between those from the field of culture on the one hand and those from the field of tourism on the other. According to the authors, the degrees are the following: full cooperation, working relationship, peaceful co-existence, parallel existence/blissful ignorance, mild annoyance, nascent conflict, and full conflict. This proposition inevitably opens up questions and creates a platform for further questions and research areas and issues, mainly those pertaining to the management of conflicts within the stakeholders’ network in event management.

In general terms, promoting additional education and organizing various creative workshops or team-building activities within the tourism destination would certainly contribute to the development of networking and synergy, and consequently improve the success of the destination. The first step, however, is to be rich, a higher level of awareness of the latent conflict in practice on these two fields, where it often lies without being openly spoken of, being explained away as an outcome of personal issues, or its cause being simply misunderstood. It is, therefore, right to ask: Is event management in a tourist destination battlefield or area of common interest?

Finally, the authors of the present article support the view that the field of event studies, reviewed by Getz [ 27 , 28 ], depicts the expanding field of event management and the wider contribution of social sciences to this interdisciplinary area of study.

6. Conclusions

Research in the field of events brings about new challenges. Events can be observed from a theoretical, managerial, sociological, economic, socio-psychological, or anthropological perspective, as well as from a number of additional perspectives, among which this article particularly stresses ontology (as “a set of concepts and categories in a subject area or domain that shows their properties and the relations between them [ 9 ]”) together with the approach to event management from the viewpoint of tourism destination management.

In their overview of the current state and critical analysis of these two themes, the authors of the present article have introduced their own views on key issues and challenges in the research field of cultural tourism and, more specifically, event tourism, pointing out to a certain “theoretical confusion,” which is particularly noticeable when it comes to definitions, classifications, and terminology. The presence of numerous invaluable research studies in this field is commendable; however, the authors have here stressed their opinion that this research should somehow be put “in order”: the conceptual framework needs to be defined with more precision, and so do the key categories and their logical levels of hierarchy (which of the categories are “subordinate” to others, i.e., which are “segments” of other categories), the context in which event tourism occurs requires a more precise definition, the mutual relationship between event tourism and the environment should be clarified, etc. In addition, the body of knowledge in the field of event management should be further expanded, and this is, according to Getz and Page, one of the key challenges for academics and professionals. To this effect, the authors have here focused on a recent praiseworthy study by Getz and Page, which to a certain extent presents an inventory of the most important research themes and directions for further research in the field of event tourism, thus providing a platform and guideline for researchers and outlining the directions they should take in the study of this extremely complex multidisciplinary phenomenon.

The authors have in this article presented a possible subanalytic model of the conceptual overview of music events, referring to the example of Istria, Croatia. The authors, namely, put forward the proposition that a generally accepted framework for event portfolios cannot possibly be completely defined, because it largely depends on individual localities and their particularities (space, sociocultural conditions, authentic elements of the community, etc.).

Referring to the analyzed example of a tourism cluster, the authors have proved that defining an event portfolio requires consensus and strategic planning, as these improve event efficiency and generally allow for a better connection to be made between the event and the destination management system. The analyzed example shows that there are increasingly more initiatives in practical tourism to avoid ad hoc organization of events and approach the process in a serious, systematic, and methodical way.

The authors are of the opinion that the level of the organization and development of the event management system is largely defined by various factors such as, above all, the enthusiasm and willingness of stakeholders to take initiatives in this field, as well as the willingness to mediate between different and frequently antagonistic interests, which are generally characteristic of tourism destination management. The management of events — those that are very fluid, soft, “invisible,” and therefore fragile elements of tourism — makes this latent conflict visible par excellence. Additionally, when it comes to coastal and rural tourism destinations, one of the key factors is participation of the local population (due to the ostensible presence of tourism in their surroundings and their lives). Other factors include the creation of events based on the authentic elements of cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, as well as many others. The authors have here put forward their own proposition that the basic portfolio framework should be defined in accordance with the destination type. Namely, urban destinations (as a rule, metropolises) should resort to mega-events and “global type” events, and coastal destinations require a certain “mixture of global and local events” — for example, music festivals ranging from international jazz festivals to those of local traditional music, whereas rural destinations should primarily organize such events that are based on authentic cultural elements.

Event management and the related theory are still fraught with open questions, and it seems that every answer merely opens up further questions, especially in the era of rapid social, technological, political, and cultural changes. Some 30 years have passed since the term event was first mentioned in 1987 by the New Zealand Tourist and Publicity Department, and since that same year, Getz defined the framework for planning event tourism. At that time, the research went in line with the profound transformations the society was undergoing. Although theses have been proposed to the effect that event management cannot be a separate field of research or professional work, the increasing number of higher education courses in the fields of cultural tourism, event management, event tourism, etc., as well as of “event manager” positions, points toward a possibility for event management (or event tourism?) to be eventually singled out as a separate field of research (or management?), with a strong multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary component, which arises precisely from its interconnections with numerous academic fields, areas, and disciplines.

What remains to be seen is where the research and practice of tourism will lead us in investigating this extremely interesting field, in a world where the words event, happening, and experience have started to acquire new meanings. In the overall alienation characteristic of the world that is busy and overburdened with modern technologies, events will probably gain in importance, representing, as it is a new possibility of escape into a form of the ancient “counter-everydayness,” which is nowadays acquiring new shapes and expressions. It will, therefore, be interesting to observe how the modern homoturisticus will move in the contemporary world of experience and at the same time to keep track of the accompanying scientific research and tourism practice.

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© 2017 The Author(s). Licensee IntechOpen. This chapter is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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• Hawaii’s Aloha Festivals: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you ready to experience the culture, history, and music that include the spirit of Aloha?

Now is finally the time to plan your Aloha Festivals. From colorful parades, exciting luaus, and traditional Hawaiian concerts, there is something for everyone at the annual Aloha Festivals.

This article provides insight into this incredible celebration of Hawaiian culture and artistry.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through lush landscapes, vibrant energy, ancient traditions, and friendly locals!

Aloha Festivals - Overview

The Aloha Festivals are a celebration of all things Hawaiian, from music and dance to food and culture.

Each year, locals and tourists alike flock to the gorgeous beaches and lush forests of Hawaii to take part in this amazing event.

With events happening throughout the islands, you'll love the celebrations no matter where you go.

Where Do Aloha Festivals Take Place?

Aloha Festivals do not have a fixed location and are celebrated across Hawaii's many islands, ranging from Honolulu to Maui, Kauai to Lanai, and everywhere in between.

Each location offers its own unique interpretation of the festival, combining local customs, music, and dance to create an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors. 

What Do Aloha Festivals Celebrate? 

Aloha Festivals is an annual celebration of Hawaiian culture and tradition through music, dance, food, and art. 

The festival began in 1946 as a way to promote Hawaii's unique culture and strengthen the local community.

At the present, Aloha Festivals are one of the largest cultural celebrations in the United States and offer an immersive experience for anyone looking to explore Hawaiian history and culture. 

When are the Aloha Festivals?

These cultural celebrations are held annually to honor Hawaii's heritage and to showcase the islands' traditional customs.

While the festivals are held throughout the month of September, the highlight is the floral parade, which takes place on the last Saturday of the month in Waikiki.

In 2023, it took place on September 30th. This parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and thousands of participants dressed in vibrant Hawaiian attire. 

Main Events at the Aloha Festivals

The festival is well-known for its two main events - the Hula performances and Hawaiian Falsetto contest.

Both of these events draw in locals and tourists, creating a sense of community and appreciation for Hawaii's vibrant traditions. Read more below for the main performances.

Hula Performances

At the Aloha Festivals, hula performances take center stage as a way to preserve and share the stories of Hawaii's past.

Hula performances are the heart of Hawaii's Aloha Festivals. These beautiful dances, steeped in history, tell the island's tales. Dancers in bright traditional costumes move gracefully, their actions weaving stories in the air.

The rhythm of their dance, paired with the soothing melodies of Hawaiian music, creates a captivating atmosphere that you'll love at the Aloha Festivals.

The Unique Falsetto Contest

One of the main events that you won't want to miss is the unique Falsetto Contest.

At the Aloha Festivals in Hawaii, one event that stands out is the Falsetto Contest. This contest gives a platform for amateur singers to showcase their talent in falsetto, a singing style that's high pitched and unique to Hawaiian music.

The competition not only entertains but also preserves the traditional music culture of the islands.

Section Key-Takeaway

At the Aloha Festivals, there are 2 main events that you shouldn't miss.

Hula performances bring Hawaii's history and culture to life, with the Waikiki Hoolaulea being one of the top events. And the Falsetto Contest is a Hawaiian tradition that makes everything even more unique.

Immerse Yourself in the Aloha Festivals Experience

Experience the vibrant and exciting culture of Hawaii by immersing yourself in the Aloha Festivals.

This annual event offers a unique opportunity to fully engage with the traditions and heritage of the islands.

From hula performances to traditional food and crafts, you are able to experience firsthand the beauty and diversity of Hawaiian culture.

Let yourself get lost in the live music and the aromas of local cuisine through the street fairs and parades that pepper the islands. 

Morning Mana'o with Luana Kawa'a

To fully embrace the spirit of these cultural festivities , you need to be immersed in the experience. And there's no better way to do that than to attend the Morning Mana'o sessions.

These intimate gatherings offer a rare opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian customs and culture directly from a local expert.

You can ask questions, engage in discussions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the history and traditions of this beautiful region.

By attending these sessions, you'll start your day off on the right foot and gain a better understanding of the celebrations that follow later in the day. 

Vibrant Street Parties

The Aloha Festivals in Hawaii are a whirlwind of color, music, and celebration, but the vibrant street parties truly steal the show.

Known as Ho'olaule'a, these events transform Hawaii's streets into one big party, complete with local food, live music, and entertainment. It's a chance to experience the spirit of Aloha firsthand, surrounded by the energy and joy of the community.

You'll be swept up in the rhythm of Hawaiian music, the friendliness of the locals, and of course, the delicious street food!

Attending Morning Mana'o sessions is the best way to learn about traditional Hawaiian customs and culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the history and traditions of the region. Also, the Waikiki Ho'olaule'a gathers the Aloha spirit, featuring a lively celebration of Hawaiian culture including hula dancing performances, falsetto contests, food, and crafts.

A Closer Look at the Aloha Festivals Floral Parade

The Aloha Festivals Floral Parade is an event like no other. As you walk along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki, the streets come alive with vibrant colors and engaging music. 

Each one adorned with breathtaking arrangements of native Hawaiian flowers and plants. The attention to detail is incredible, with every float bearing a unique design that tells a story of love for the Aloha State.

The Parade Route

The parade route follows the Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki's lively hub, where you can get a front-row seat to all the action.

The avenue's prime location offers an array of stunning backdrops—the elegant Royal Hawaiian Center and the serene Ala Moana Beach Park are just some of the many sights to behold along the way.

For those who love photography, the parade route provides endless opportunities to capture the vibrant floats and beautiful floral arrangements.

The grand procession ends its upbeat march at Kapiolani Park, which has a rich history as one of Hawaii's earliest public parks named after Queen Kapiʻolani. 

Floats and Displays

One of the main attractions at the Aloha Festivals in Hawaii are the floats and displays. These vibrant and creatively designed structures are a feast for the eyes.

Each float on the parade is unique, reflecting Hawaiian culture, history, and natural beauty. You'll see colorful depictions of Hawaiian legends, flora, fauna, and iconic landscapes. Can you think of a better way to enjoy the party?

The Aloha Festivals Floral Parade is an event that showcases vibrant colors, engaging music, captivating floral arrangements, and the graceful swaying of hula dancers.

The parade route along Kalakaua Avenue offers stunning backdrops and plenty of opportunities for photography, concluding at Kapiolani Park for a vibrant celebration.

The Significance of the Royal Court in Aloha Festivals

This ceremony honors the monarchy era of Hawaii and brings to life the roles of the ancient Hawaiian royalty. 

With each member of the court gathering specific roles from King Kalākaua’s reign, from chiefs to kings and queens, the investiture is a vivid reenactment of Hawaii's royal past.

The court's attendants play a vital role too, showcasing the importance of ancillary staff in Hawaiian royalty.

Overall, the Royal Court represents the essence of Hawaiian heritage and the significance of the monarchy era, and it's a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the Aloha Festivals.

Royal Court Ceremony

Another of the most significant components of the Aloha Festivals is the Royal Court, which adds a regal and enchanting touch to the festivities.

The members of the court, adorned in traditional Hawaiian clothing, are chosen for their knowledge of Hawaiian traditions and their community involvement.

They participate in various events throughout the celebrations, including the grand parade, where they make a majestic entrance aboard colorful floats.

Kalakaua Avenue during Waikīkī Ho'olaule'a In Oahu

This event is truly a spectacle, with a huge party stretching along Honolulu's famous Kalakaua Avenue.

During the Aloha Festivals, Kalakaua Avenue transforms into a lively hub for the Waikīkī Ho'olaule'a.

This vibrant avenue teems with booths offering a taste of Hawaii's unique cuisine, crafts, and culture. It's not just a street, but a grand stage for Hawaii's largest annual block party!

The Aloha Festivals feature a Royal Court, elegantly dressed in traditional Hawaiian clothing, whose presence honors Hawaii's cultural heritage. The Royal Court at the Hoolaulea event in Honolulu is a representation of Hawaiian pride and heritage, showcasing its traditional costumes, music, and dancers.

Coming and spending some time on Kalakaua Avenue is an excellent idea to have fun with the locals and other travelers.

Conclusion:

Aloha Festivals represent more than just an ordinary cultural event; they are living, breathing experiences that have sustained the traditions of Hawaii for generations.

When Aloha Festivals is occurring will truly make it a trip to remember! Join in the celebration and allow yourself to become immersed in everything the festival has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What months are the aloha festivals.

Held annually in September, these festivals celebrate the unique traditions and customs of the Hawaiian people, and feature a variety of events and activities that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Why is Aloha festival celebrated?

The Aloha Festival celebrates Hawaiian culture and traditions. It showcases music, dance, history, and customs of Hawaii's people.

What do people do at the Aloha Festival?

There are over a hundred events like hula performances, falsetto contests, and floral parades that the participants can join. They also enjoy morning mana'o sessions and vibrant street parties.

What is the most famous festival in Hawaii?

The most renowned festivity in Hawaii is arguably the Aloha Festivals - an annual cultural celebration with island-wide events drawing locals and tourists alike.

The 'golden parade' in Egypt

This article is an adaptation of our weekly History newsletter that was originally sent out on April 5, 2021. Want this in your inbox? Sign up here .

By Debra Adams Simmons , HISTORY   Executive Editor The mummies of 22 pharaohs and royals were moved Saturday from their display cases in the century-old Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo to a new home. Officials seized the opportunity to put them in the spotlight, turning their five-mile trek to the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilization into a gala parade. The spectacle was part of a larger effort to showcase Egypt’s storied past and stimulate post-pandemic tourism. Dubbed the “Pharaohs’ Golden Parade,” the procession ( pictured below ) included dancers, mounted guards, dramatic music, newly-commissioned murals along the route, and a light show. Each of the mummies had its own float designed to evoke the royal barges that carried the pharaohs of old to their tombs. The guests of honor included Ramses II , often styled “the Great” and portrayed as the pharaoh mentioned in the biblical Book of Exodus. Also Hatshepsut , an accomplished builder, forceful leader, and one of ancient Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Also paraded: A decade-long ruler, Seti I   ( pictured above ).

This wasn’t the mummies’ first road trip, however. As writer Tom Mueller reports , the royals were moved from their original tombs thousands of years ago to protect them from grave robbers. Then, in the late 1800s, they were transported up the Nile on steamships to take up residence in Cairo museums. Ramses even flew to Paris for a makeover in 1976. Many Egyptians enjoyed the parade as a moment of festivity amid the trials of the pandemic. But others worry that the mummy migration has brought bad luck. A recent fatal train wreck in central Egypt, a building collapse in Cairo, and the bizarre blockage of the Suez Canal all have been blamed on a modern-day mummy’s curse connected to the parade. But archaeologist Zahi Hawass , formerly head of Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities, dismisses the notion. “There is no such thing as a curse,” he laughs, “just a lot of superstitious people.” Do you get this daily? If not,   sign up here   or forward this to a friend.

TODAY IN A MINUTE

Gamer technology helps archaeologists:   1,800 years ago, a 22-pound piece of chain armor was thrown into a Danish bog as a victory offering after a battle. Now the Vimose coat has been rebuilt, through technology developed for the video game industry. The modern effort guided the refurbished look, fit, and function of the intricate shield, archaeologist Marjin Wijnhoven   tells Nat Geo , adding: “How cool would it be to fit yourself out digitally with this clothing?” Bones: It took 400-million year-old fishes to help researchers toward a new conclusion. Analysts say the earliest bones evolved to act as skeletal batteries, supplying prehistoric fish with minerals needed to travel over greater distances. These ancient fish, known as osteostracans, had hard-plated shells and bones that were like concrete. The later bones became softer, maintaining themselves, repairing injuries, and providing key nutrients to the bloodstream,   Riley Black reports for Nat Geo . Oldest map: More than 1,500 years old, a mosaic buried beneath rubble for centuries has become an invaluable locator of now-destroyed churches and other sites in the Holy Land. The Madaba mosaic itself sat beneath a long-ruined Byzantine church in modern-day Jordan until its discovery in 1884—and is now in a new church on the site, Nat Geo’s History   magazine reports. Subscribers can read this story here .

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Break time:   On Russia’s remote Sakhalin Island, photographer Natalie B. Fobes   captures these factory workers on a break from canning salmon. The image was part of a July 1990 National Geographic story on salmon, from catch to can. Catch a selected image from our archive each day right here . Fishing production has been a focus of Wildlife Watch , a unit of our newsroom funded by the National Geographic Society. About canned fish: How dolphin-safe is canned tuna?

THE BIG TAKEAWAY

Beacons of light: Although lighthouse keeping is a lonely and sometimes treacherous task, women have been at the center of lighthouses since colonial times, often until their old age. In the few documents they left behind, women lighthouse keepers played down their role. The U.S. government didn’t give them much credit either. Finally, these women are coming out of the shadows. “We have to stop telling these stories about female lighthouse keepers as if they’re exceptional. These women were not anomalies.” professor Shauna MacDonald of Cape Breton University tells Nat Geo . ( Above, a vintage postcard shows Ida Lewis , dubbed one of "America's bravest women," with her dog Dewey in front of the Lime Rock Light Station in Newport, Rhode Island.)

IN A FEW WORDS

You soon learn that people everywhere are concerned by 95 percent of the same things. We all talk about the same issues. Love or its absence. The fates of our children. Hate the boss. And, increasingly, the ominous climate. Paul Salopek, Writer, Nat Geo Explorer behind the Out of Eden Walk , From: The war correspondent walking the world

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This Tuesday, George Stone writes on travel. If you’re not a subscriber, sign up here to also get   Victoria Jaggard on science, Rachael Bale on animal news, and Whitney Johnson on photography.

LAST GLIMPSE

THE QUEEN V:   Britain became a mighty empire and the world’s most powerful nation under the trend-setting Queen Victoria aka Queen Vic or the Grandmother of Europe. By the end of her rule, about one in four people on Earth were subjects of the British Empire. It’s been 120 years since she died, ending 63 years and seven months at the helm, but her legacy lives on today, Erin Blakemore writes for Nat Geo . The Queen V   was so profound that the time of her reign is named the Victorian Era.

SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE

This newsletter has been curated and edited by David Beard and Monica Williams, and Jen Tse has selected the photos. Glenn Oelund also contributed today. Have an idea, a link, an opinion of Queen Victoria? We'd love to hear from you at [email protected] . Thanks for reading, and happy trails.

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20 Festivals that Showcase Brazil’s Rich Cultural Tapestry

• 14 minute read

• November 18, 2023

Top 20 Festivals In Brazil That You Have To Know

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of Brazilian culture and celebrations? Brazil, a country known for its rich diversity, offers a kaleidoscope of festivals that embody its soul and spirit.

From the pulsating rhythms of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro to the enchanting floral displays of Expoflora in Holambra, each festival paints a vivid portrait of Brazil’s heritage and traditions.

In this article, we embark on a journey through the top 20 festivals that define Brazil, delving into a colorful mosaic of religious observances, cinematic artistry, folklore showcases, and community celebrations.

Join us as we explore these cultural gems that encapsulate the essence of Brazil , showcasing its diverse tapestry of traditions and joyous revelries.

“If you are looking for the best hotel and flight deals for your next vacation, then we recommend booking your bundled flight and hotel through hotwire.com . “

1. Carnival (Rio de Janeiro)

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is an electrifying, globally renowned festival celebrated annually before Lent, attracting millions of locals and tourists alike. This vibrant event embodies the essence of Brazilian culture, combining music, dance, parades, and colorful costumes in a grand celebration that lasts for several days.

History and Tradition

• Roots and Origins : Carnival traces its roots back to ancient Roman and Greek festivals, evolving over time and blending with indigenous Brazilian and African cultural elements.
• Evolution in Rio : The modern Rio Carnival evolved in the 19th century, influenced by various cultural traditions, including Portuguese, African, and indigenous Brazilian customs.

Samba Schools and Parades

• Samba Schools : The heart of Rio’s Carnival lies in its samba schools, community-based organizations that compete in dazzling parades at the Sambadrome.
• Parade Competition : These schools craft elaborate floats, costumes, and choreographies, competing fiercely in various categories for the prestigious championship.

Music and Dance

• Samba Music : The infectious rhythm of samba music permeates the air during Carnival, inviting everyone to join in the celebration.
• Samba Dance : Intricate samba dance performances, characterized by energetic movements and vibrant costumes, captivate audiences.

Street Parties and Blocos

• Blocos : Throughout the city, vibrant street parties known as “blocos” take place, featuring music, dance, and revelry in various neighborhoods.
• Diverse Participation : These blocos cater to diverse tastes, showcasing different music genres and themes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Cultural Significance

• Unity and Diversity : Carnival symbolizes Brazil’s rich cultural diversity, fostering a sense of unity among people from various backgrounds.
• Expression of Joy and Freedom : It’s a time for Brazilians to express their joy, creativity, and freedom through music, dance, and art.

Economic and Touristic Impact

• Tourism Magnet : Rio Carnival is a major attraction, drawing tourists worldwide, significantly contributing to the city’s economy.
• Job Opportunities : The event generates employment opportunities across sectors, from hospitality to the arts, supporting the local economy.

2. Festa Junina (Nationwide)

Festa Junina is a vibrant and traditional Brazilian festival celebrated across the country, mainly during June. This festivity pays homage to rural life, folklore, and Catholic saints, blending indigenous, European, and African cultural elements into a colorful celebration.

Origins and Tradition

• Religious Origins : Festa Junina has its roots in Catholic traditions, particularly honoring Saints Anthony, John the Baptist, and Peter, with festivities held around their feast days in June.
• Rural Influence : The festival celebrates rural life, harvest seasons, and rural traditions, often held in rural areas and neighborhoods, featuring bonfires and rustic decorations.

Typical Elements and Customs

• Decor and Costumes : Colorful decorations, rustic attire like checkered shirts, straw hats, and dresses, contribute to the festive ambiance.
• Traditional Foods : Traditional dishes such as corn-based treats (like pamonha and canjica), sweet popcorn, and mulled wine (quentão) are central to Festa Junina.

Dance and Music

• Quadrilha Dance : The quadrille dance, similar to square dancing, is a significant part of Festa Junina, performed in pairs or groups following choreographed routines.
• Music and Forró : Forró music, characterized by its lively rhythms, plays a prominent role, energizing participants to dance throughout the festivities.

Community Celebrations

• Community Involvement : Festa Junina is an event that fosters community participation, with schools, churches, and neighborhoods organizing their celebrations.
• Games and Activities : Traditional games like sack races, tug-of-war (corrida de Saco and puxa-saco), and fishing for prizes (pescaria) entertain attendees of all ages.

3. Bumba Meu Boi (Maranhão)

Bumba Meu Boi is a folk festival deeply rooted in Maranhão’s cultural heritage, combining African, Indigenous, and European influences. This celebration revolves around the enactment of a captivating tale involving music, dance, and storytelling.

Myth and Performance

• Cultural Story : The festival narrates a tale often centered around the death and resurrection of a bull, featuring characters, music, and elaborate costumes.
• Colorful Performances : Colorful costumes, masks, and vibrant performances by dancers, singers, and musicians bring the story to life.

Cultural Diversity and Influence

• African and Indigenous Roots : Bumba Meu Boi showcases a blend of African rhythms, indigenous elements, and Portuguese influences, reflecting Brazil’s diverse heritage.
• Variations and Styles : Different regions of Maranhão have their unique versions and styles of the Bumba Meu Boi celebration.

Role of Music and Dance

• Musical Diversity : The festival boasts a rich musical repertoire, featuring instruments like drums, flutes, and strings, creating a captivating and rhythmic atmosphere.
• Dynamic Performances : Dancers exhibit intricate choreography, portraying characters from the story with lively movements and expressions.

Festive Spirit and Community Engagement

• Celebratory Atmosphere : Bumba Meu Boi fosters a joyous and celebratory mood, inviting locals and visitors to partake in the festivities.
• Community Bonding : The festival strengthens community bonds, with people coming together to celebrate their cultural heritage.

4. Parintins Folklore Festival (Amazonas)

The Parintins Folklore Festival, also known as “Festival de Parintins,” is an extravagant folk celebration held annually in the city of Parintins, Amazonas. This festival is a vibrant showcase of folklore, music, and theatrical performances deeply rooted in indigenous Amazonian culture.

Origin and Cultural Significance

• Boi-Bumbá Tradition : The festival revolves around the Boi-Bumbá folklore, depicting the mythical story of the resurrection of a bull, representing a blend of indigenous, African, and European influences.
• Spiritual Importance : The event has spiritual significance for locals, symbolizing a cultural narrative and ancestral connections with the Amazonian heritage.

Festival Highlights and Performances

• Batalha dos Bois (Battle of the Bulls) : The festival’s centerpiece is the competitive performances by two groups, Garantido (represented by red) and Caprichoso (represented by blue), showcasing their interpretations of the Boi-Bumbá story through elaborate dances, songs, and floats.
• Elaborate Costumes and Choreography : Colorful costumes, extravagant floats, and synchronized choreography captivate audiences, portraying intricate storytelling and cultural elements.

Cultural Immersion and Audience Engagement

• Audience Participation : The festival engages spectators actively, encouraging them to cheer for their favorite group and immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of the performances.
• Cultural Exchange : Parintins Folklore Festival is a platform for sharing Amazonian traditions, providing an opportunity for cultural exchange among locals and visitors.

5. Oktoberfest (Blumenau)

The Oktoberfest in Blumenau is Brazil’s largest and most famous German folk festival, celebrated annually in the city of Blumenau, Santa Catarina. This festival pays homage to German culture, particularly Bavarian traditions, featuring music, dance, food, and, of course, beer.

Historical Roots and Significance

• German Influence : The Oktoberfest in Blumenau originated from German immigrants who settled in the region, bringing their customs and traditions.
• Bavarian Celebration : The festival mirrors the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, showcasing Bavarian culture through music, clothing, and gastronomy.

Festive Elements and Activities

• Beer Culture : The festival offers a vast array of German beers, including traditional Oktoberfest brews, served in large tents accompanied by lively music and dancing.
• Traditional Attire : Participants don traditional Bavarian garments, such as lederhosen for men and dirndls for women, adding to the authentic cultural experience.

Cultural Integration and Entertainment

• Live Music and Performances : Live bands play traditional German music, encouraging attendees to participate in folk dances like the Schuhplattler and the Polka.
• Cultural Exhibitions : The festival includes exhibitions highlighting German traditions, crafts, and folklore, allowing visitors to delve deeper into German heritage.

Economic Impact and Tourism

• Tourist Magnet : The Oktoberfest in Blumenau attracts visitors from across Brazil and around the world, contributing significantly to the city’s tourism industry.
• Economic Boost : The festival serves as a major economic driver, generating revenue for local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

6. Rock in Rio (Rio de Janeiro)

Rock in Rio is a legendary music festival that originated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Since its inception in 1985, this internationally acclaimed event has grown into one of the largest music festivals globally, attracting top-notch artists and music enthusiasts from around the world.

History and Significance

• Inaugural Event : The first Rock in Rio festival took place in 1985, featuring renowned artists like Queen, AC/DC, and Iron Maiden, among others.
• Global Impact : The festival gained immense popularity, earning its reputation as a major music event that transcends borders, drawing massive crowds and worldwide attention.

Musical Extravaganza

• Diverse Lineup : Rock in Rio showcases a diverse lineup of musical genres, not limited to rock but embracing pop, electronic, and other music styles, catering to a broad spectrum of tastes.
• Iconic Performances : The festival is known for hosting iconic performances by legendary musicians and bands, creating unforgettable moments for attendees.

Cultural Experience and Innovation

• Cultural Exchange : Rock in Rio promotes cultural exchange, uniting people from different backgrounds and nationalities through the universal language of music.
• Environmental Initiatives : The festival emphasizes sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices and advocating environmental awareness among attendees.

Impact on Tourism and Economy

• Tourist Attraction : Rock in Rio draws massive tourism to Rio de Janeiro, boosting the city’s economy and local businesses during the festival period.
• Economic Boost : The event generates revenue not only through ticket sales but also from merchandise, food vendors, and associated tourism activities.

7. São João Festival (Northeast Region)

The São João Festival is a traditional celebration in the Northeast Region of Brazil, paying homage to Saint John the Baptist, marked by vibrant festivities showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Roots and Traditions

• Religious Significance : São João Festival honors Saint John the Baptist and is celebrated with fervor, blending Catholic traditions with indigenous and rural customs.
• Rural Influence : The festival reflects rural life and agricultural traditions, with rituals and customs linked to the harvest season.

Festive Elements and Customs

• Bonfires and Decorations : Celebrations include bonfires, colorful decorations, and rustic ornaments, creating a festive atmosphere in towns and villages.
• Traditional Foods : Specialties like corn-based dishes (such as Canjica and pamonha ), sweet treats, and typical beverages like quentão are integral to the festivities.

Quadrilha Dance and Music

• Quadrilha Performances : The Quadrilha dance, akin to square dancing, is a highlight of São João, with participants dressed in traditional attire performing intricate choreography.
• Forró Music : Forró music sets the tone for the celebrations, featuring lively rhythms and melodies, inviting people to dance and revel in the festivities.

Community Engagement and Unity

• Community Celebrations : São João Festival fosters community participation, with neighborhoods and towns organizing their celebrations, featuring music, dance, and cultural displays.
• Social Bonding : The festival strengthens social bonds, bringing families and communities together to partake in joyful celebrations and share cultural experiences.

8. Boi Bumbá Festival (Pará)

The Boi Bumbá Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration held in Pará, Brazil. It is deeply rooted in folklore and traditions, showcasing a colorful spectacle that blends indigenous, African, and European influences.

Cultural Roots and Origins

• Folklore and Tradition : The festival centers around the Boi-Bumbá folklore, depicting the tale of a bull’s death and resurrection, symbolizing the cultural fusion of diverse influences.
• Regional Variations : Different regions of Pará have their versions of the Boi Bumbá, each with its unique interpretations, music, and performances.

Festive Highlights and Performances

• Elaborate Costumes and Dances : Colorful costumes, elaborate masks, and vibrant dances characterize the performances, portraying the captivating storyline and cultural richness.
• Music and Rhythms : Boi Bumbá showcases a diverse musical repertoire, blending indigenous rhythms, African beats, and European melodies, creating an immersive experience for spectators.

Community Participation and Symbolism

• Community Engagement : The festival involves active participation from local communities, fostering unity and a sense of belonging.
• Symbolism and Rituals : The performances often carry symbolic rituals, reflecting themes of life, death, and rebirth while celebrating cultural heritage.

9. Lavagem do Bonfim (Salvador)

Lavagem do Bonfim is a traditional and religious festival held in Salvador, Bahia, renowned for its cultural significance and vibrant processions.

Religious Significance

• Catholic Tradition : The festival pays homage to Senhor do Bonfim, a Catholic saint highly revered in Bahia, and involves religious rituals, prayers, and processions.
• Washing of the Steps : A central ritual involves devotees washing the steps of the Bonfim Church, a symbolic act of cleansing and renewal.

Processions and Cultural Displays

• Colorful Processions : Lavagem do Bonfim features colorful processions, where participants, dressed in traditional attire, parade through the streets carrying flowers and offering prayers.
• Capoeira and Music : Cultural elements like capoeira performances and traditional music accompany the procession, adding to the festive ambiance.

Community Involvement and Unity

• Community Engagement : The festival fosters community involvement, bringing together people from various backgrounds and neighborhoods to partake in the religious and cultural festivities.
• Celebration of Bahian Culture : Lavagem do Bonfim serves as a platform to celebrate and showcase Bahian culture, traditions, and spiritual beliefs.

10. Cirio de Nazaré (Belém)

The Cirio de Nazaré is one of Brazil’s largest religious events, held in Belém, Pará, dedicated to Nossa Senhora de Nazaré (Our Lady of Nazareth), the patron saint of the Amazon region.

Religious Tradition and Devotion

• Spiritual Importance : The festival venerates Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, drawing devout Catholics from across Brazil who gather to pay homage and seek blessings.
• Procession of the Statue : The highlight of Cirio de Nazaré is the grand procession where the image of the Virgin Mary is carried through the streets, accompanied by multitudes of devotees.

Cultural Spectacle and Celebrations

• Massive Gatherings : The festival attracts enormous crowds, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere filled with prayers, hymns, and expressions of faith.
• Folkloric Elements : The procession incorporates folklore and traditional elements, showcasing Amazonian cultural aspects and indigenous influences.

Economic Impact and Community Bonds

• Economic Influence : Cirio de Nazaré significantly impacts Belém’s economy, with businesses, vendors, and tourism thriving during the festival.
• Community Unity : The event fosters a sense of unity among locals, strengthening community bonds through shared faith and cultural heritage.

11. Festival de Gramado (Rio Grande do Sul)

The Festival de Gramado is a renowned international film festival held annually in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, attracting filmmakers, artists, and movie enthusiasts from around the world.

• Film Celebration : The festival showcases a diverse selection of national and international films, promoting cinematic artistry and cultural exchange.
• Award Ceremonies : It includes award ceremonies recognizing outstanding films and contributions to the cinematic industry, fostering artistic appreciation and recognition.

International Participation and Film Screenings

• Global Participation : The festival attracts filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals worldwide, offering a platform for networking and collaboration.
• Film Screenings : It features screenings of various film genres, including features, documentaries, and short films, offering a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences.

Cultural Exchange and Audience Engagement

• Cultural Diversity : Festival de Gramado facilitates cultural exchange through the exploration of diverse cinematic perspectives and storytelling techniques.
• Audience Interaction : Attendees engage with filmmakers through Q&A sessions, workshops, and discussions, creating an interactive and enriching experience.

12. Festas do Divino Espírito Santo (Alcântara)

The Festas do Divino Espírito Santo is a religious and cultural celebration observed in Alcântara, Maranhão, honoring the Holy Spirit with colorful processions and traditional rituals.

Religious Observance and Traditions

• Spiritual Significance : The festival venerates the Holy Spirit and features religious rituals, prayers, and processions reflecting strong Catholic devotion.
• Cultural Customs : It encompasses a blend of indigenous, African, and Portuguese traditions, creating a distinctive cultural tapestry.

Symbolic Elements and Processions

• Imperial Symbols : Festas do Divino Espírito Santo includes the crowning of an emperor and empress representing the divine spirit, symbolizing grace and charity.
• Processions and Feasting : Colorful processions, adorned with flags and banners, accompany communal feasts and traditional music, fostering community spirit.

13. Semana Santa (Ouro Preto)

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a significant religious event observed in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, marking the events leading up to Easter Sunday in the Catholic calendar.

Religious Observances and Rituals

• Easter Celebrations : Semana Santa commemorates the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, with a series of religious services, processions, and reenactments.
• Ceremonial Events : The week includes symbolic rituals like the Stations of the Cross, Last Supper reenactments, and the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) processions.

Cultural Heritage and Artistic Expressions

• Artistic Representations : The week features elaborate decorations, religious artworks, and displays depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, showcasing artistic expressions.
• Processions and Traditions : Processions, accompanied by somber music and religious chants, traverse the historic streets, evoking a sense of solemnity and reflection.

14. Festival de Parintins (Amazonas)

The Festival de Parintins, also known as the Boi-Bumbá Festival, is a grand cultural celebration held in Parintins, Amazonas, featuring vibrant displays of folklore, music, and theatrical performances.

Boi-Bumbá Tradition and Symbolism

• Cultural Narrative : The festival revolves around the Boi-Bumbá folklore, portraying the tale of the death and resurrection of a bull, representing the amalgamation of diverse cultural influences.
• Colorful Spectacle : The festival is characterized by elaborate costumes, mesmerizing dances, and spirited performances by competing groups, Garantido (red) and Caprichoso (blue).

Spectacular Performances and Narratives

• Batalha dos Bois (Battle of the Bulls) : The highlight of Festival de Parintins is the competitive performances by the Garantido and Caprichoso groups, showcasing creative choreography, music, and floats.
• Storytelling through Dance and Music : The festival unfolds a captivating storyline through synchronized dances, evocative music, and elaborate stagecraft, captivating the audience.

15. Natal Luz (Gramado)

Natal Luz is a dazzling Christmas-themed festival celebrated in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, renowned for its enchanting light displays, performances, and holiday spirit.

Christmas Celebrations and Festive Atmosphere

• Festive Lights : Natal Luz illuminates Gramado with enchanting light displays, transforming the city into a magical wonderland, captivating locals and visitors alike.
• Holiday Performances : The festival features theatrical presentations, concerts, and performances highlighting Christmas-themed music and stories.

Cultural Displays and Activities

• Cultural Shows : Natal Luz includes cultural shows depicting Christmas traditions, portraying the Nativity, and showcasing Brazilian and international holiday customs.
• Street Parades and Events : The festival hosts joyful street parades, interactive events, and activities, fostering a sense of community celebration and holiday cheer.

16. Festas do Senhor Bom Jesus de Iguape (Iguape)

Festas do Senhor Bom Jesus de Iguape is an annual religious festival held in Iguape, São Paulo, venerating Senhor Bom Jesus, the patron saint of the city.

Religious Devotion and Traditions

• Religious Observance : The festival involves religious rituals, processions, and masses dedicated to Senhor Bom Jesus, attracting devoted pilgrims and worshippers.
• Historical Significance : It commemorates historical events and venerates the religious patron, fostering a sense of spiritual devotion among participants.

Cultural Elements and Celebrations

• Traditional Processions : The festival includes grand processions carrying the image of Senhor Bom Jesus through the streets, accompanied by prayers and religious hymns.
• Community Celebrations : Festas do Senhor Bom Jesus de Iguape encourages communal celebrations, featuring cultural displays, local cuisine, and music, promoting cultural heritage.

17. Expoflora (Holambra)

Expoflora is an annual flower and garden festival held in Holambra, São Paulo, renowned for its stunning floral displays, exhibitions, and cultural activities.

Floral Displays and Exhibitions

• Breathtaking Gardens : Expoflora showcases meticulously arranged flower gardens, featuring a diverse array of local and exotic flowers, attracting gardening enthusiasts.
• Flower Exhibitions : The festival hosts exhibitions displaying various floral species, offering insights into horticulture and gardening techniques.

Cultural Events and Attractions

• Cultural Shows : Expoflora includes cultural performances, music, and dance showcasing Brazilian and Dutch traditions, reflecting Holambra’s Dutch heritage.
• Crafts and Cuisine : Visitors can explore artisanal crafts, sample local cuisine, and indulge in Dutch delicacies amidst a festive ambiance.

18. Círio de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré (Belém)

Círio de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré is one of Brazil’s largest religious processions, held in Belém, Pará, venerating Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, the patron saint of Pará.

Religious Observance and Procession

• Devotional Procession : The festival features a grand procession, where a statue of Nossa Senhora de Nazaré is carried through the streets, drawing thousands of faithful devotees.
• Spiritual Pilgrimage : Pilgrims from across Brazil participate, seeking blessings and expressing their devotion to the revered saint.

Cultural Significance and Traditions

• Cultural Celebrations : The festival blends religious observances with cultural traditions, including traditional music, dances, and rituals, reflecting the region’s heritage.
• Community Participation : Círio de Nazaré fosters community bonds, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of faith and culture.

19. Festival de Cinema de Gramado (Rio Grande do Sul)

The Festival de Cinema de Gramado is an esteemed film festival held in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, showcasing national and international cinema.

Cinematic Showcase and Awards

• Film Screenings : The festival presents a curated selection of Brazilian and international films, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and established directors.
• Jury Awards : Distinguished films are honored with prestigious awards, recognizing excellence in various categories, contributing to the elevation of cinematic artistry.

Cultural Exchange and Film Appreciation

• Cultural Exchange : Festival de Cinema de Gramado encourages cultural exchange, allowing audiences to appreciate diverse cinematic narratives and storytelling techniques.
• Cinematic Dialogues : The event fosters discussions, workshops, and seminars, promoting discourse on filmmaking, industry trends, and storytelling methods.

20. Festival Folclórico de Caruaru (Pernambuco)

The Festival Folclórico de Caruaru is a lively folk festival celebrated in Caruaru, Pernambuco, showcasing vibrant Northeastern Brazilian folklore, music, and traditions.

Folkloric Performances and Music

• Northeastern Folklore : The festival features captivating folklore performances, including traditional dance forms like Forró, Xaxado, and Quadrilha, showcasing the region’s cultural richness.
• Live Music : Musicians perform authentic Northeastern Brazilian music, adding to the festive ambiance with rhythms like Baião and Frevo.

Crafts and Culinary Delights

• Craftsmanship : Festival Folclórico de Caruaru highlights local craftsmanship, displaying artisanal works, clay pottery, and intricate handicrafts, demonstrating regional artistry.
• Local Cuisine : Visitors indulge in Northeastern delicacies, savoring dishes like tapioca, bolo de rolo, and carne de sol, experiencing the flavors of Pernambuco.

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Cultural Affairs and Special Events

Dcase supports creatives and expands access to the arts throughout chicago’s 77 neighborhoods., city of chicago—birthplace of house music—celebrates 40th anniversary of the genre with four days of free events culminating in millennium park for the chicago house music festival, june 2.

DCASE Communications    [email protected]

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Chicago House Music Festival, Millennium Park, June 2

Chicago house music festival pre-party, navy pier, june 1, chicago house music conference, chicago cultural center, may 31, chicago cultural center open house: celebrating house music, may 30.

CHICAGO —Mayor Brandon Johnson and the City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced today the City’s 2024 lineup of free House Music programming, celebrating 40 years since the music genre was born in Chicago, and revolutionized dance music internationally. Making a return to Millennium Park for the 20th Anniversary Summer Season, the 2024 Chicago House Music Festival will take place Sunday, June 2 from 10am–9pm featuring an incredible lineup of local and international DJs. Headlining the Jay Pritzker Pavilion are Tony Touch, ANANÉ, Ash Lauryn, and Karizma performing before Farley Jackmaster Funk King of House Music, Wayne Williams and Alan King of the Chosen Few DJs . On the North Promenade of the Park, Slo ‘Mo / Kido hosts Queer Fam Pride Jam , a youth and queer family-friendly event with dance lessons, DJ sets and more from 10am-1pm, followed by Viva Acid presenting top local DJs until 9pm. Full lineup below.

“House Music is a global phenomenon born and raised in Chicago 40 years ago, with roots that go back even further. Like Blues, Jazz, and Gospel that came before, House is our true cultural heritage as a city—it galvanizes Chicagoans, celebrates our diversity, innovation, and joy and invites the world to join in,” shared Mayor Brandon Johnson .

Leading up to the June 2nd Chicago House Music Festival, DCASE will present three days of free House Music events including the Chicago Cultural Center’s Open House (May 30) featuring House DJs spinning throughout the historical building alongside new visual art exhibitions and arts programming from 4-8pm.

The next day, the Chicago House Music Conference (May 31) brings engaging panels with House music icons and experts to the Chicago Cultural Center featuring Keynote Speaker Steve "Silk" Hurley of S&S Chicago . DCASE Senior Policy Analyst - Music, Frayne Lewis shares, “During this milestone anniversary year, the Chicago House Music Conference continues to offer a crucial platform for the House Music community to come together and discuss roadmaps into the industry, address pressing issues affecting the community, reflect on 40 years of creativity and dream for the next 40.”

There will be a special Chicago House Music Festival Pre-Party (June 1) at Navy Pier showcasing Stacy Kidd, Gene Hunt, and more, before the festivities culminate in Millennium Park for the 2024 Chicago House Music Festival (June 2) , as part of Millennium Park’s 20th Anniversary Season.

The lineup of legendary House DJs and local talent will have audiences dancing throughout the first week of National Pride Month this June. Programming info enclosed; for more information, visit ChicagoHouseMusicFestival.us .

“This is a huge year for House Music as we celebrate 40 years of the genre’s first releases and a cultural movement started in our great city,” shared DCASE House Music Programmer David Chavez . “DCASE is excited to contribute to the citywide celebration alongside events all year produced by Chicago House legends, including the Inaugural House Music Parade led by DJ Farley Jackmaster Funk of #House40 Anniversary, the non-profit organization House Music 40 led by Vince Lawrence and Chip E , the Chosen Few DJs , and many others.”

Led by Chicago legend DJ Farley Jackmaster Funk and Delece Williams, #House40 Anniversary organization will produce the Inaugural House Music Parade and Festival , Saturday, August 31 at 10am in the South Loop. For more information visit www.thehousemusicparade.com .

House Music 40 is a non-profit organization to raise awareness of the significant contributions made by Chicago House Music artists to the global music landscape while providing financial support for Chicago House Music DJs facing ongoing health concerns. Visit www.HouseMusic40.com for a calendar of their events.

Enclosed is the full lineup for the City’s 40th anniversary Chicago House Music Festival events. For DCASE’s 2024 calendar of festivals and events, visit Chicago.gov/DCASEcalendar . Additional details about programming in Millennium Park and citywide will be announced in the coming weeks. Sign up for the DCASE Newsletter and follow on Instagram ( @chicagodcase ), Facebook and X for the latest updates.

Chicago House Music Festival and Conference is sponsored by MP Garages and Chicago Transit Authority.

Chicago House Music Festival Programming Lineup

Thursday, may 30 | 4-8pm | chicago cultural center friday may 31| 5-10pm | chicago cultural center saturday, june 1 | 1-10pm | wave wall stage, navy pier sunday, june 2 | 10am-9pm | millennium park, open house: celebrating 40 years of chicago house music thursday, may 30, 4-8pm chicago cultural center, 78 e. washington free.

• 4-7pm - DJ Workshop with We Jam Academy (1st Floor)
• 4-7pm - Film screening of House Music documentary in Claudia Cassidy Theatre (2nd Floor)
• 4-6pm - DJ Kenny Ray in Preston Bradley Hall (3rd Floor)
• 5:30 & 6pm - House Dance Workshop with Boogie McClarin in G.A.R. Hall (2nd Floor)
• 6-8pm - DJ CTRLZORA in Preston Bradley Hall (3rd Floor)

Chicago House Music Conference Friday May 31, 2024, 5-10pm Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington Free

Welcome and Remarks 5-5:30pm, Preston Bradley Hall (3rd Floor)

Beyond the Beat, Dancing with Purpose: Exploring love, consent, and accountability on the dance floor with underground culture creators in Chicago and beyond 5:30-6:30pm, Millennium Park Room (5th Floor)

From intimate gatherings to bustling clubs, underground culture creators play a pivotal role in shaping the experiences and values of nightlife communities. This panel brings together a diverse array of artists, promoters, and activists to explore how these foundational principles manifest within underground nightlife spaces. Join us as we collectively envision ways to cultivate safer, more inclusive spaces where love, consent, and accountability thrive at the heart of the underground culture movement.

• Aria Pedraza (Ripe Productions)
• James Bangura (Black Rave Culture)
• Jenny Fox (Eden/Globe Thotter)
• Moderated by: Jermaine Collins (Resident Advisor)

The Last Hurrah: Making Money with Music in the Streaming Age 5:30-6:30pm, Washington Room (5th Floor)

The business model for making money with music has come a long way. The digital divide and low payouts associated with streaming services like Spotify have left many wondering how to monetize their music for maximum profits. SYNC licensing music for ads, TV, and film is one way. Another is working with aggregators that collect your payments – many times licensing fees and publishing royalties go uncollected. Music supervisors and placement companies are at the forefront of this industry and we’ll hook you up with all the essentials so you can start getting PAID today.

• Ira Antelis – Antelis Music
• Brandy Ricker – Music Supervisor
• Haroula Rose – Songwriter/Filmmaker
• Moderated by: Shannon "Skip" Syas - S&S Chicago, Inc.

Prep & Process: The Singers and Songwriters of House 6:15-7:30pm, Preston Bradley Hall (3rd Floor)

Singing/Songwriting can be a lucrative career. We’ll speak with some of dance music’s most well-known performers during a 30-minute panel to help you find your creative voice. This will be followed by an intensive 30-minute roundtable where we’ll pair attendees and panelists to demonstrate singing/songwriting techniques and answer questions. In the last 15 minutes we’ll come back together and sum up our group experiences.

• Carla Prather – Singer/Songwriter - Nervous Records
• Jon Pierce – Singer/Songwriter/Author – T's Box
• Byron Stingily – Singer/Songwriter Insomniac Records Ultra Records
• Dana Divine – Singer/Songwriter
• Moderated by: Dani Sanders aka Black Widow – Chicago Defender & Southside Weekly

The Latine Influence on Chicago’s House Music Culture: How Latine culture has impacted the sound of Chicago’s homegrown dance music. 6:45-7:45pm, Millennium Park Room (5th Floor)

Chicago's House music scene has long been celebrated as a global phenomenon. From the underground clubs to the mainstream, the Latine influence has been a driving force, infusing House music with a diverse range of rhythms, instrumentation, and cultural nuances. As we celebrate the cultural diversity that defines Chicago's House music, we will also address the challenges faced by Latine artists in gaining recognition and representation within the industry. By recognizing and honoring these contributions, we aim to amplify the voices of Latine artists and foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of musical cultures in shaping the global phenomenon that is House music.

• Louie Gomez (Bassment Tapes Records)
• Janesita (Radio Muevelo)
• Julio Bishop (Real Deep Recordings)
• Moderated by: Luis Baro (Viva Acid)

Keep-a-Knockin’ (But You Can’t Come In): Activating Change Within The Recording Academy 6:45-7:45pm, Washington Room (5th Floor)

The title of a potent Little Richard tune, the architect of Rock & Roll who famously never won a GRAMMY for his music. Jay-Z ruffled feathers this year by suggesting the GRAMMY’s most prestigious awards were withheld from certain people, up to and including his wife, Beyonce. Does the house/underground dance music community want a seat at the GRAMMY table? Is legitimacy at stake when you buy in or opt-out? Frankie Knuckles, Masters at Work, David Morales and Maurice Joshua have all won and it's been proven that nominations and wins increase opportunities and revenue. Hear from nominees, winners, and staff of The Recording Academy on what creators and fans of house music can do to activate the change you want to see.

• Sarah Jansen – Senior Executive Director, Recording Academy Chicago Chapter
• Terry Hunter – 3x GRAMMY Nominee
• Maurice Joshua – Grammy Award Winning DJ/Producer
• J.Ivy – 3x GRAMMY Winner
• Moderated by: Dani Deahl (Chicago Chapter Governor, DJ & Producer)

Keynote Fireside Chat 8-9:15pm, Preston Bradley Hall (3rd Floor)

4-Time GRAMMY® Nominated House Music Pioneer Steve "Silk" Hurley of S&S Chicago

and special guest, 5-time GRAMMY® Winning Producer, “Jimmy Jam” Harris of Flyte Tyme

Moderated by: First Lady - Multimedia Personality & Pioneering House Music Female DJ

Chicago House Music Festival Pre-Party Saturday, June 1, 1-10pm Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave – Wave Wall Stage Free

Navy Pier, Wave Wall Stage (1-10pm)

• 1-2:30pm - Mickey Oliver and Mario Smokin Diaz
• 2:30-4pm - Julio Bishop b2b DJ Frique
• 4-5pm - CTRLZORA
• 5-6pm - LoveBug
• 6-7pm - Sonny Daze
• 7-8pm - DeeJay Alicia
• 8-9pm - Stacy Kidd
• 9-10pm - Gene Hunt
• Hosted by: Melissa DuPrey

Chicago House Music Festival Sunday, June 2, 10am–9pm Millennium Park, Multiple stages Free

Main Stage (Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 1-9pm)

• 1-2:15pm - Lori Branch
• 2:15-3:30pm - Ash Lauryn
• 3:30-4:45pm - Karizma
• 4:45-6pm - ANANÉ
• 6-7:15pm - Tony Touch
• 7:15-7:45pm - Farley Jackmaster Funk
• 7:45-9pm - Wayne Williams and Alan King of the Chosen Few DJs
• Hosted by: Carla Prather & Natty Figgs

Chicago House Stage (North Promenade, Millennium Park, 10am-9pm) 10am-1pm Slo ‘Mo / Kido present Queer Fam Pride Jam Produced by legendary queer dance party Slo ‘Mo & South Loop children’s boutique Kido, the Queer Fam Pride Jam celebrates LGBTQ+ families, kids and allies with all-ages activities including dance lessons, DJ sets, performances and more. Visit queerfampridejam.com for more info.

In partnership with Viva Acid

• 1-2pm - Andrew Emil
• 2-3pm - DJ Jes
• 3-4pm - Janesita
• 4-5pm - Jana Rush
• 5-6pm - Microdot
• 6-7pm - Flores Negras
• 7-8pm - Johnny Fiasco
• 8-9pm - DJ Slugo
• Hosted by: Luis Baro

Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events The City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. As a collaborative cultural presenter, arts funder, and advocate for creative workers, our programs and events serve Chicagoans and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, downtown and in diverse communities across our city—to strengthen and celebrate Chicago. DCASE produces some of the city’s most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city—serving a local and global audience of 25 million people. The Department offers cultural grants and resources, manages public art, supports TV and film production and other creative industries, and permits special events throughout Chicago. For details, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE and stay connected via our newsletters and social media .

Millennium Park Celebrating its milestone 20th anniversary season, Millennium Park delivers a world-class collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provides the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, interactive art and family activities. In Millennium Park, you’ll find a spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city, a destination for all Chicagoans and visitors alike. In addition to the more than 80 free events to be presented throughout the summer, a special four-day 20th Anniversary Celebration will take place July 18-21 across the Park featuring award-winning headliners, activities for families and youth, workouts, new public art, dance performances, concerts, and fireworks — presented by DCASE with the Grant Park Music Festival and others and supported by the Illinois Office of Tourism, Millennium Park Foundation and others.

Millennium Park is the #1 attraction in the Midwest and among the top 10 most-visited sites in the U.S. Millennium Park is located on Michigan Avenue, bordered by Randolph St. to the north, Columbus Dr. to the east and Monroe St. to the south. The Park is open daily from 6am to 11pm. Plan your visit at MillenniumPark.org ; follow us on Facebook (@MillenniumParkChicago), Twitter and Instagram (@Millennium_Park); and join the conversation on social media using #MillenniumPark.

About Navy Pier Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the top nonprofit tourism destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 8 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more. The Pier celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 with the unveiling of the iconic Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion . Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing Pier-wide redevelopment efforts—including Sable, a 223-room Hilton hotel, new restaurants and partnerships, and thrilling new attractions such as Flyover Chicago. The Pier is proud to provide free, year-round arts and cultural programming designed to inspire, educate, and connect communities across the city and globe. For more information, visit NavyPier.org .

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Music Culture

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Office of Tourism announces ‘Year of Music’ campaign

BATON ROUGE, La. –  Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the Louisiana Office of Tourism announced the launch of the  “Year of Music” campaign , designed to emphasize Louisiana’s musical culture and historical impacts across a variety of genres. As the birthplace of jazz, Cajun and zydeco music, Louisiana’s music is one of the state’s defining characteristics. The year officially kicked off with Louisiana’s float and performance in the 135th annual Rose Parade ®  on January 1 in Pasadena, Calif. The parade’s theme was “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language.” The Explore Louisiana float took home the Showmanship Award for the second year in a row.

The Explore Louisiana float featured a larger-than-life Mardi Gras jester, fleur-de-lis and second-line-inspired umbrellas. Louisiana once again took the stage for the mid-parade performance. Mardi Gras music was performed by Louisiana musicians – Louisiana Music Hall of Famer and fiddler Amanda Shaw; James Burton, who is ranked number 24 in  Rolling Stone’s  list of 250 greatest guitarists of all time and has played with the likes of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash; and four-time GRAMMY-nominated Zydeco artist Sean Ardoin.

“We were really excited to kick off our Year of Music at the Rose Parade this year,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “We have an incredible amount of musical talent in Louisiana, and every year it attracts visitors from all over the world. All throughout 2024 we’re going to be inviting people to come and hear our great music in person at music venues all across the state.”

The Rose Parade is just one example of how Louisiana is celebrating the “Year of Music.” The state will also be participating in events such as  CMA Fest  in Nashville and  DC Jazz Festival  in Washington D.C. Louisiana is also working with Louisiana-based artists on a series of social media takeovers for these talented music ambassadors to share what they love about Louisiana and what inspires their music and writing.

The “Year of Music” also coincides with the launch of the Louisiana Music Trail, which will go live on  ExploreLouisiana.com  later this month. The trail celebrates all the genres of music Louisiana has impacted, the artists of Louisiana, historical sites, music venues and more.

“The music trail is a great opportunity to share our musical history and culture with the world,” said Assistant Secretary of Tourism Doug Bourgeois. “Through exploring the trail visitors can discover hidden gems and gain a deeper appreciation of Louisiana’s impact on a huge variety of musical genres.”

To stay up to date on Louisiana’s plans, visit the Explore Louisiana  Year of Music webpage .

Watch CBS News

The Puerto Rican Day Parade is in NYC today. See the list of street closures and more.

By Zinnia Maldonado

Updated on: June 9, 2024 / 2:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- New York City's National Puerto Rican Day Parade is marching in Manhattan today.

The parade route runs along Fifth Avenue from 44th Street to 79th Street. It started at 11 a.m.

The celebration of Puerto Rican culture has been taking place in Manhattan for more than 60 years.

Iconic salsa singer Tito Nieves named Puerto Rican Day Parade grand marshal

This year's grand marshal is iconic salsa singer Tito Nieves.

"What makes this parade special, all Latinos for that given day support the Puerto Rican community," Nieves told CBS New York .

Nieves was born in Puerto Rico but raised in Brooklyn, where he found his passion for salsa, becoming one of the leading salsa singers of the 1980s and '90s.

"If you go into a neighborhood where they're blasting that salsa music, where you feel like a sense of comfort," Nieves said.

Nieves has performed in the parade for years, but calls being the grand marshal this time around an honor.

"I said, wow, why would they-- grand marshal? That's like a big responsibility, but then again, why not? I'm a New Yorker," he said.

This year's theme is "Boricua de Corazon," meaning you don't have to live or be born on the island to be Puertorriqueno.

"Puerto Rican, it's within me. Puerto Rican's in my blood," Nieves said.

New Yorkers on the Lower East Side, known for its thriving hub of Latin culture, agree.

"Puerto Ricans can live in any state in the U.S. or anywhere in the world, and they still strongly identify as Puerto Rican," Jasmine Maldonado said.

"Puerto Ricans is a very beautiful race that basically wherever they do go, they bring the culture," Luis Rivera said.

Puerto Rican Day Parade street closures in NYC

The following streets are closed Sunday for the parade:

• West/East 44th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 45th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 46th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 47th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 48th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• 5th Avenue between 42nd Street and 79th Street
• 5th Avenue between 79th Street and 86th Street
• East 79th Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 80th Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 81st Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 82nd Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 83rd Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 84th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 85th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• Madison Avenue between East 42nd Street and East 86th Street
• 6th Avenue between West 42nd Street and West 49th Street
• West/East 43rd Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 42nd Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West 51st Street between Rockefeller Plaza and 5th Avenue
• West 58th Street between Grand Army Plaza and 5th Avenue
• East 60th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 63rd Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 64th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 66th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 69th Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 70th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• East 72nd Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
• East 74th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
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Illinois: The Middle of Everything

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For Distribution Dec 18, 2023

Illinois Office of Tourism Unveils “Illinois: The Middle of Beats & Blues” Float for 135th Rose Parade

Enjoy Illinois float showcases Route 66 attractions and will include a live musical performance by a cappella group Straight No Chaser to promote Illinois as a premier travel destination.

PASADENA, Calif. – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism (Enjoy Illinois) will return for its second float appearance at the 135th Rose Parade® presented by Honda on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, in Pasadena, California, as a part of America’s New Year Celebration®. 

To reflect the Rose Parade’s theme, “Celebrating a World of Music,” Enjoy Illinois will spotlight the state’s music history along Route 66 with its float called, “Illinois: The Middle of Beats & Blues,” a nod to the state’s award-winning tourism campaign, “Middle of Everything.” Parade spectators will experience a captivating live musical performance by the hit a cappella group Straight No Chaser delivering a medley from the iconic movie filmed in Illinois, “The Blues Brothers.” The float will feature a replica of a drive-in movie scene, showcasing “Joliet'' Jake Blues and his brother Elwood, along with a classic 1950’s car. 

"We are thrilled to showcase Illinois at the 2024 Rose Parade for the second year in a row and celebrate the state’s rich music history along Route 66 with our “Illinois: The Middle of Beats & Blues” float,” said Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism. "From the Route 66 starting point in Chicago to Springfield and Collinsville and all the historic small towns in between, the Mother Road serves as the crossroads of cultural expression, offering unique attractions and adventures you can only experience in Illinois."

The Enjoy Illinois float recreates the iconic Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, starting with Chicago’s Route 66 “Begin” sign. The journey through the float reveals larger-than-life replicas of the Gemini Giant spaceman in Wilmington, the Pink Elephant in Livingston, and the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville – an homage to the quirky roadside attractions along the historic route. At the front of the float, iconic Springfield landmarks, Shea’s Gas Station and the Route 66 Legends Neon Sign Park Experience, offer a glimpse into Route 66 landmarks around the state’s capital.

The 24-foot-tall float took three months to build with the help of nearly 22,000 volunteer hours and will feature 30,000 flowers. The Enjoy Illinois float will incorporate many elements to spotlight Illinois’ agritourism industry, including pumpkins, corn, soybeans, lavender, sunflowers, prairie grass and blue violets, the state’s official flower.

“The Tournament of Roses is thrilled to see Straight No Chaser's performance on the Enjoy Illinois float during the 2024 Rose Parade, marking the second consecutive year of Enjoy Illinois' participation,” said 2024 Tournament of Roses President Alex Aghajanian. “Straight No Chaser’s a cappella brilliance will grace the float harmonizing with the theme ‘Celebrating a World of Music,’ to showcase Illinois' rich

musical heritage. The group’s unforgettable musical experience will be an incredible addition to the festivities and bring us all together to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Illinois.” 

"We are so proud and beyond excited to be performing on the Enjoy Illinois float in the 2024 Rose Parade," said Straight No Chaser member Randy Stine, who was born and raised in Illinois. "Like so many people around the country, we grew up watching the parade every New Year's Day. What a dream come true it is to be a part of such an iconic event."

To view a rendering of the “Illinois: The Middle of Beats & Blues” float and images of the a cappella group Straight No Chaser, click here . 

The Enjoy Illinois “The Middle of Beats & Blues” float will be available for viewing post-parade on Jan. 1-2, 2024 during Float Fest accompanied by a special appearance from Enjoy Illinois’ mascot, Big Lincoln. Promotional materials from the Illinois Office of Tourism and Rose Parade will be distributed while supplies last. 

To learn more about planning a getaway in Illinois, visit EnjoyIllinois.com and follow @EnjoyIllinois on Facebook , Instagram and TikTok .

About the Illinois Office of Tourism:

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Tourism

manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life

benefits for Illinois residents. To learn more, visit EnjoyIllinois.com .

About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® and The Rose Parade® presented by Honda:

The Tournament of Roses is a volunteer organization that hosts America’s New Year Celebration® with the Rose Parade® presented by Honda, the Rose Bowl Game® and a variety of accompanying events. The Association’s 935 volunteer members supply more than 80,000 hours of manpower, which will drive the success of the 135th Rose Parade, themed “Celebrating a World of Music” on Monday, January 1, 2024, followed by the 110th Rose Bowl Game. For more information, visit www.tournamentofroses.com . Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

About Straight No Chaser:

Initially formed at Indiana University, a cappella group Straight No Chaser emerged at the forefront of the modern-day a cappella movement and has since sold more than three million albums worldwide, garnered over a billion streams on Pandora alone, and sold more than 1.5 million concert tickets worldwide. In the fall of 2022, the group performed in more than 60 cities across the US with multiple sold-out shows. The group is currently on their "Sleighin' It Tour," a three-month-long U.S. trek. Last month, the group released "Stocking Stuffer," their latest EP of holiday originals and favorites. For more information, visit sncmusic.com .

Media Contact:

Madeline Sweeney

[email protected]

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46th Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade shows the 'beauty of Chicago'

Hundreds cheered from the sidewalk of division street as the parade passed through humboldt park saturday, many holding or even wearing different renditions of the nation’s flag..

Josefina Morales smiles at the Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade Saturday in Humboldt Park.

Pat Nabong/Sun-Times

Jacob Rios, a Humboldt Park native, used to attend the Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade every year with his father.

It often landed on Father’s Day, so the two would spend the weekend together.

But even though his father passed away in 2015, the 38-year-old has kept up the father-and-son tradition. On Saturday afternoon, Rios brought his youngest, 5-year-old Jovani, to the parade for the first time.

“This was like his heart and soul; this is the beauty of Chicago,” Rios said of the event. “Now I’ve got my little guy with me. … It feels like a blessing. I know he’s watching from heaven right now.”

Rios and his son were among the hundreds cheering from the sidewalk of Division Street as the 46th annual Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade passed through Humboldt Park Saturday.

The father-son duo had arrived from Jovani’s baseball game on the West Side at 10 a.m., with Rios proudly displaying the Puerto Rican flag on his sleeve in two ways — his shirt and a tattoo he got shortly before his dad died.

“I’m late to everything in my life,” he said. “To this, I’m not.”

Jacob Rios carries his half asleep son, Jovani Rios, 5, as he watches the Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade on Saturday in Humboldt Park.

Dayanne Ivera, a Humboldt Park resident who moved to Chicago from Puerto Rico when she was 18, said she was attending for the first time because she “wanted to be in the mix.”

Now 32, she said though she returns to Puerto Rico every November for her birthday, always making sure to visit her grandparents, being at the parade feels like home.

“This is the closest you’re gonna get to Puerto Rico over here,” she said. “It gives you that nostalgic feeling going around smelling the food and hearing the music and the vibes of everybody. … It’s a great way to explore the culture authentically.”

Ivera and her sister showed up in matching — almost — outfits: Roberto Clemente jerseys, a Puerto Rican MLB player and the first Latin-American to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, though Ivera opted for an alternate jersey to differentiate herself.

“He’s an icon. This is the Puerto Rican parade; you have to,” Ivera said. “It’s law by now. … It’s like Jeeps, we all just give the little head nods.”

The parade was once again held at Paseo Boricua, the heart of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community — home to many of the 93,000-plus Puerto Ricans in Chicago, or 3.3% of its population according to the 2020 Census — as part of Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas .

The festival hosted new activities through the weekend, including a cookoff between firefighters and a 20-foot-wide map of Puerto Rico where guests can use stickers to mark the towns they are from — which organizers said aimed to bring people together — as well as the usual arts, food vendors and dancing.

Charlie Mango, a Puerto Rican Logan Square resident, moved to Chicago from New York five years ago and has attended the parade every year since. He said while the New York parade is often larger, it’s the soul of Chicago’s celebrations that makes it stand out.

“It’s hard to beat New York, but I really love the spirit of Chicago,” Mango, 26, said. “It’s very local. … I love the neighborhood feel. I think New York can feel very isolating; people don’t always get to know each other.”

Mango bought a handcrafted Puerto Rican flag with a golden tassel border because he didn’t want to be “cheap” this time around, and he also wore the symbol on a thong over jeans and carried a rainbow Puerto Rican flag.

“It’s good to remember that we’re here because our identity can be erased; there’s no look to being Puerto Rican,” Mango said. “The flag is the only thing that unites us all. We all look different, but we share the same culture.”

He said the majority of the flags he’d seen were resistance flags, referring to the lighter blue rendition of the flag. He said his friends who aren’t from Puerto Rico had asked him about the Caribbean island and U.S. territory’s push for independence after seeing them.

“Not only does it remind us Puerto Ricans of the final objective, but it gets non-Puerto Ricans to ask about the battle no one’s talking about,” Mango said. “It’s one of the last major colonies — they need independence.”

Charlie Mango (left) waves a flag Saturday during the Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade.

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Your guide to Juneteenth celebrations around Pittsburgh

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Pittsburgh and Pitt are joining in the nationwide jubilation for Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S. Don’t miss these June events, where you can learn about the history of the holiday, celebrate freedom and serve the community.

A jubilant downtown festival

The Western Pennsylvania Juneteenth Celebration, the largest in the region, is back, complete with the Grand Jubilee Juneteenth Parade, a voting rights forum and a salute to military service. The celebration also encompasses the Pittsburgh Black Music Festival, which will offer a vibrant mix of music across genres, including live jazz, gospel, hip-hop, RnB, funk, blues and soul performances.

Pitt departments can also table at the festival on Saturday and Sunday. Sign up , or contact Chance Wideman ( chw246 [at] pitt.edu ) or Keith Caldwell ( keith.caldwell [at] pitt.edu ) with questions.

Where: Market Square and Point State Park

Tickets: This is an unticketed event .

Family fun in Homewood

Friday, june 14, 3-6 p.m..

Join the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh and other community partners for the neighborhood’s Pre-Juneteenth Festival. The event will feature free food, live entertainment, a group fitness class, a kid's zone and special guest speakers, including Leon Ford, Jason Rivers and Rev. Cornell Jones.

Where: Homewood-Brushton YMCA, 7140 Bennett St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15208

Glass creations in Bloomfield

Saturday, june 15, 11 a.m.-3 p.m..

The Pittsburgh Glass Center is holding a Juneteenth community open house in collaboration with Kelly Strayhorn Theater and the Legacy Arts Project. Enjoy glass-making demonstrations and explore a multimedia installation, “Myth-Science of the Gatekeepers,” which features life-size statues of Black queer Kemetic deities by Rainbow Serpent, a Black LGBTQ+ arts collective.

Where: Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15206

Tickets: Most activities are free and unticketed; register in advance to create your own glass sculpture.

Freedom festivities in Penn Hills

Saturday, june 15, 12-3 p.m..

Enjoy African dancing and drumming and honor unsung community heroes at this New Life Community Ministries event. The New Life Community Ministries festival will also feature arts and crafts, games, a scavenger hunt, free snacks and food trucks.

Where: Universal Park, 1 Memorial Park Lane, Penn Hills, PA, 15235

Movie night in Oakland

Tuesday, june 18, 6:30 p.m..

Join members of Equipoise, Pitt’s community for African American and Black staff and faculty, for a screening of “American Fiction.” The film will be followed by a discussion and happy hour at Spirits and Tales. Refreshments will be served during the movie.

Where: William Pitt Union, Room 630, 3959 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15213

Tickets: This is a free event, but registration is requested .

Community service in the Hill District

Friday, june 21, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m..

The Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Pitt Serves and the Engaged Campus will host a day of service in the Pittsburgh neighborhood. Volunteers will help with local projects, such as litter cleanup and grounds maintenance around the Hill, then join a lunch and learn session to discuss the impact of community engagement.

Where: Transportation will be provided from the Pittsburgh campus; register on the Pitt Serves portal for more information.

Cultural expression in Carnegie

Saturday, june 22, 2-4 p.m..

This Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall event combines cultural expression and historical education. Pitt Associate Professor Alaina Roberts is among the local experts who will speak at the festivities. The celebration will also include performances by local studio Dance INK and artwork displays.

Where: 300 Beechwood Ave., Carnegie, PA, 15106

— Donovan Harrell

Registration is open for Pitt’s Juneteenth service day on June 21

Pitt’s national patent ranking improved to no. 14 in 2023, michele v. manuel is the first woman u. s. steel dean of the swanson school of engineering.

Omaha area celebrates Juneteenth with parade, music, food, and more

The Omaha area is gearing up to celebrate Juneteenth.

Previous coverage in the video above

KETV has put together a list of events going on around the metro, celebrating the holiday.

Third Annual Juneteenth JoyFest

• What: arts and culture festival featuring artists, music, food, and more
• Where: 24th and Ohio streets, Omaha

For more information, click the link here .

Omaha Freedom Festival

• What: parade, festival with Kidz Zone and music, contests and giveaways, and more
• When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Where: 34th and Evans area, Omaha

Juneteenth Celebration

• What: panel discussing Black-owned small businesses, live music, food, and more
• When: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Where: 30th and Patrick Avenue, Omaha

Click here for the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7

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Potential for scattered strong thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon, evening

READ THE FULL STORY: Omaha area celebrates Juneteenth with parade, music, food, and more

CHECK OUT KETV: Get the latest Omaha news, sports and weather from team at KETV – and find out why we’re Omaha’s favorite news source.