Local artists celebrate different cultures at FusionFest in Orlando
A cultural diversity festival took over the Seneff Arts Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center this morning.
More than 1,000 local artists representing more than 100 different cultures showcased their talent at FusionFest on the stages, in its galleries and in its interactive installations.
Massive puppets representing different cultures marched around.
"Our puppet from the Ukraine stands 13 feet tall and is worn by a puppeteer,” Tracey Conner of MicheLee Puppets said.
Food trucks featured plates from Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Jamaica, Spain and the list goes on.
"It makes me really, really happy to see everything coming to life and everyone just having a blast sharing their culture,” said Thali Sugisawa, the executive director of FusionFest.
The event began with a ceremony where 19 people from a variety of countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens.
"Ahh, finally. (Such a) good time. Thank you, United States. Thank you everybody for (supporting) me,” an attendee said.
The event then continued in celebration.
"We want this place to be a brave and a safe space for people to come out and just be who they are and be celebrated,” Sugisawa said.
If you missed out on Fusionfest Saturday, you get another chance to check it out Sunday.
The festivities continue Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.