An estimated 5,000 people attended the second Brookhaven International Festival in October. The city attributes the successful event to the change in location, an increase in entertainment options, and engagement of community partners and sponsors.
This year’s festival featured a Mexican art installation, Cielo Tejido (Woven Sky), described as “a testament to the dedication of over 200 women artisans and a powerful artistic and communal expression that bridges cultures.” The 656-ft. hand-woven canopy was located at the Peachtree Creek Greenway overlook bridge.
Brookhaven Communications Specialist Marcella Cortes reported that more than 50 city staff members were involved in putting on the Brookhaven International Festival by cleaning up Peachtree Creek, promoting the event, engaging community partners, and planning the music, entertainment, and food vendors.
“Things looked very differently this year from what they looked like last year,” said Cortes. “Although it was not easy to make the decision to move the festival out on the Greenway, we feel it worked out very well. People were able to enjoy the all the amenities and activities at Corporate [Boulevard]. In the end, we feel it was a good change.”
The health and wellness center attracted 700 people. It was staffed by volunteers, Dekalb County Public Health Department, healthcare professionals from Mercer University, Emory University, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Dekalb County Children’s Advocacy Center.
The city raised nearly $12,000 in sponsorships. Cortes said the city is confident that having well-known sponsors in 2024 will attract even more sponsors next year. The Brookhaven International Festival 5k road race raised $3,000 for We Love Buford Highway’s youth orchestra — a project that benefits 60 local students and their families.
Brookhaven Police Department reported no arrests or major incidents.
“It was a smashing success,” said Communications Director Burke Brennan. “We learned a lot from year one, and put it into practice in year two.”
