The City of Reading 275th Anniversary Parade and 4th annual Berks Cultural Diversity Festival will take place in tandem on Sunday, October 1, 2023. Both events will celebrate Reading’s rich history, culture and diversity.
Schedule for the day begins with the parade at 10am organized by the 275th Anniversary Steering Committee. The parade will start at 2nd and Penn and travel up Penn Street to the entrance of City Park at 11th and Penn.
The parade will feature area marching bands, floats and community groups. Bring The Change Berks Cultural Diversity Festival will take place in City Park from 12pm-6pm and feature an array of cultural performances, food trucks, an international game section, local vendors, and cultural tables to explore city diversity.
The Berks Cultural Diversity Festival is designed to promote and celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage in Berks County by fostering an environment of respect, appreciation and acceptance of multiculturalism. The organization seeks to educate people about the various cultures present in Berks County through music, cuisine, cultural games, performances, and much more.
”It’s a perfect confluence of events to have the 275th anniversary parade and the diversity festival occur on the same day. From the beginning of planning for this city’s 275th anniversary, the collective goal of the steering committee was to be absolutely inclusive of our residents who represent more than 60 nationalities. Reading is truly a perfect example of the American melting pot and highlighting that on October 1 will showcase the pride this city has in its diversity.” said Donna Reed, City Council president.
Both events are open to the public and free to attend. Visit: readingpa.gov/visitors/275 and bringthechange.net
