Councilmember Mai Vang Hosts Fourth Annual South Sacramento Festival: Celebrating the Culture That Defines South Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, CA – Councilmember Mai Vang proudly hosted the Fourth Annual South Sacramento Festival, a vibrant event that celebrates the diversity and unity that make our community shine. This free festival, held at Valley Hi Park, brought together residents from all walks of life to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that defines District 8. In attendance were Mayor Darrell Steinberg, SMUD Board Member Dave Tamayo, EGUSD Trustee Sean Yang, and SCUSD Trustee Chinua Rhodes.

Councilmember Mai Vang expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “The South Sacramento Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the rich diversity that defines our community. Whether through food, education, or the arts—this event brings our District 8 residents together to learn from and appreciate each other’s cultures and stories. I’m incredibly proud to host this event annually to create opportunities for our residents to unite, celebrate, and strengthen bonds within our diverse community.”

This year’s festival featured a backpack giveaway in partnership with Capital City Baptist Church, free kids’ activities, including complimentary haircuts provided by MIXED Institute of Cosmetology and Barber, and over 40 vendors offering a variety of community resources, services, and cultural performances.

Randy Johnson, owner of MIXED Institute, expressed his enthusiasm about participating in the South Sacramento Festival for the third time. He noted, “Participating in these types of events aligns with our school’s overall mission to give back. We want to show up, contribute, and bring positivity to the neighborhood around South Sacramento.”

The festival attracted over 700 attendees, representing the diverse backgrounds of the South Sacramento community. Residents came together to celebrate one another’s cultures, engage with their neighbors, and access valuable community resources. City staff and organizations like Children’s Choice Dental Care, Lu Mien Community Services, and Florin Road Partnership were present to connect with residents and provide essential services.

Sacramento’s Department of Community Development Associate Planner, Alexi Wordell, highlighted the significance of large-scale community events like the South Sacramento Festival. “These gatherings provide a welcoming space where people can engage with City staff, ask questions, and share their thoughts in a more casual setting. Participating in these events can keep residents informed about projects like the 102-acre site, including its history, context, and ongoing planning and development. This helps raise awareness and encourages meaningful input and ongoing engagement throughout the multi-year process. Reaching out to residents in places where they feel comfortable ensures that a wide range of voices is included in shaping our community’s future.”

The South Sacramento Festival was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse array of residents to celebrate, connect, and access important resources. Councilmember Mai Vang and her team are excited to keep this tradition alive, rain or shine, as they continue to unite and ignite community pride for years to come!

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