By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter
Northborough – Several hundred people were treated to art exhibits from Northborough students of all ages, professional artist exhibits, musical and dance performances and food as part of a special Cultural Festival held Sept. 22.
The event was presented by the Northborough Cultural Council (NCC) as part of Applefest and was held on the grounds of the First Parish Unitarian Church.
“A couple of years ago the idea came around, could we do something very cultural? That is our ambition here – to celebrate the culture, whatever it is,” remarked Craig Cox, the NCC treasurer.
Selvi Oyola, the group’s president, said that the festival was an initiative through a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
“The Massachusetts Cultural Council delegated grants to the local arts and cultural events in their towns. They wanted to help local cultural councils identify needs or wants and come up with a way to meet that need. We conducted a survey and one of its outcomes was people wanted an all-inclusive event where they could see art…” Oyola shared. “We are highlighting diversity in our town and connecting people through the arts.”
Among the musical performers was Fabiola Mendez, who provided a Latin flair, and international folk-dance troop Mavi Dance as well as the Boston Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.
Kelleher Catering served barbeque chicken and, because it was a very hot day, Trombetta’s was the hero of the day with their homemade ice cream.
First Parish, concurrently, held a self-guided History Tour to bring awareness of their church to the Northborough community.
Peter Mierswa, church member, said that the tour was a way of welcoming everyone into the church, noting that services took place Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m.
For more information about the NCC, visit https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/cultural-council.
photos/Melanie Petrucci
