First Cultural Fusion Fest a Resounding Success

The first-ever MDI area Cultural Fusion Fest was held earlier this month with great success.

The free event, organized by a group of nonprofits and former seasonal workers who have made MDI their home, saw a turnout of roughly 250 people. The attendees included a diverse mix of seasonal workers, students, and community members. Organizers expressed that the event surpassed their expectations in all aspects: it celebrated diversity and inclusion, welcomed seasonal workers to MDI for the 2024 season, provided connections to community resources, and offered opportunities for cultural exchange.

Attendees enjoyed the resource tables, music from Stream Reggae and Big Moose Contra Band, and delicious Jamaican food from Island Take Out and New England foods from Cas Ole Catering, Choco-Latte, and others. Most importantly, the event provided a welcoming space for people to connect with one another.

The event was organized by Bar Harbor Food Pantry, College of the Atlantic, Healthy Acadia, Island Take Out, Jackson Lab, Open Table MDI, YWCA MDI, and Witham Family Hotels.

The group extends deep gratitude to the event sponsors Choco-Latte, Cleary Law, Mount Desert Island Hospital, Ocean Properties, Royal Indian Restaurant, and to the community for their donations that make this and similar events possible. If you were unable to attend the Fusion Fest but would like to support future events, donations are gratefully accepted at bit.ly/SupportCulturalFusionFest.