COLDWATER – Plans continue for the 'Cultural Jubilee: A Gathering of Neighbors' to be held Saturday, May 18 and organizers are seeking groups and individuals to join as exhibitors, vendors, sponsors and volunteers.

The event is meant to be a true gathering of neighbors designed to celebrate the many cultural identities and traditions that thrive in our city and our county.  It will be held in downtown Coldwater in Tibbits Plaza and South Hanchett Street from 10 am – 4 pm. Launching from the Cultivating Community Celebration in 2022, the family-friendly event will include displays, exhibits and activities as well as a market area, a stage for entertainment, and an area for presentations and conversations.

Organizations involved currently include Branch County Community Foundation, Tibbits Opera House, Branch Intermediate School District, Branch District Library, KCC Grahl Center, AIRA of Coldwater, Coldwater Main Street, Community Center/Beech House, Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce, Safe Haven, Branch County Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence, Clemens Food Group, and Bronson Polish Festival.

According to BCCF Executive Director Erica Heminger, “The entire event centers around creating an environment that is welcoming to ALL by sharing authentic representations of the cultures in our community. The cultures already represented and involved or sought include Arab/Yemeni, Hispanic/Latino, Amish, Potawatomi, Polish, German and Haitian.”

Organizers plan to continue Cultivating Community. They are looking for individuals and groups willing to assist with all areas of the planning and funding. To create a free and welcoming event, funding is needed. Sponsorship opportunities range from event sponsors at $5000, to $1000 and $500 sponsors recognized as fence posts and fence pickets on a graphic of a welcoming neighborhood fence. Other donations will be recognized as grass roots support along the base of the fence. A fund has been established at the Branch County Community Foundation (BCCF) to receive all donations for the Cultural Jubilee. Donations may be made online at brcofoundation.org or mailed to 2 W Chicago St, #E1 Coldwater, MI 49036.

Organizers are seeking exhibits, activities, food and vendors to provide authentic representations of the cultures in Coldwater and Branch County. Individuals of the culture you wish to represent must be included in the planning. Booth space is $25 for local groups and applications are available at https://form.jotform.com/233174626513050.

Groups or individuals interested in participating are welcome. For more information go to cultivatingcommunitybc.weebly.com or contact Tibbits at 517-278-6029 or the Hope Café at 517-462-6249.