Downtown Lynchburg Association (DLA) is thrilled to announce that the 7th Annual International Festival will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, on Main Street. This free, family-friendly event celebrates our community’s rich cultural diversity with an unforgettable Parade of Nations, international cuisine, music, dances, and displays. Attendees can travel the globe in a single afternoon while savoring global flavors, shopping for unique arts and crafts, and enjoying vibrant performances showcasing traditions from around the world. 

This year marks a significant milestone as DLA hosts the International Festival for the first time and relocates the event to the heart of Downtown on Main Street.

Ashley Kershner, Executive Director of DLA, says, "This year marks an exciting new chapter for the International Festival as Downtown Lynchburg Association takes the helm, building on the strong foundation laid by the City of Lynchburg. The festival now moves to Main Street, bringing the community together to celebrate the diverse cultures that make our city special.”

DLA is currently seeking participants to enhance the festival experience:

• Food Vendors offering authentic global flavors.
• Artisans showcasing handmade goods from around the world.
• Cultural Clubs & Global Organizations eager to share their heritage and traditions through interactive displays or performances.

Interested parties are encouraged to apply here.

The 2025 International Festival is hosted by Downtown Lynchburg Association in partnership with the City of Lynchburg’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism. This event is made possible thanks to support from Bank of the James, Genworth, BWX Technologies, Schrader Pacific, Centra Health, Randolph College, Framatome, Spearman Artisanry, Christine Avery/Realty ONE Group, The Krise Building, and the Academy Center of the Arts.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations looking to support this vibrant community event. Click here for more information on sponsorships or email ashley@downtownlynchburg.com.

About Downtown Lynchburg Association

Downtown Lynchburg Association (DLA) is an accredited program of the Virginia Main Street and the National Main Street Center™ and a member of International Downtown Association.  DLA works to create a strong, vibrant, and welcoming downtown. For more than two decades,  the organization and the City of Lynchburg have worked together to sustain and develop downtown as a vital economic, cultural, recreational, residential, and historic center for our community. Learn more.