Photo: Palmsolutions.org

Palms Solutions – the African Diaspora Global Initiative – in collaboration with the Friends of Clark Park (FOCP) and the Mayor’s Commission on African & Caribbean Immigrant Affairs, is hosting the kick off of its annual “West Philly African & Caribbean Multicultural Festival (Westpac Fest)” event at Clark Park (43rd and Baltimore) on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2-6 p.m. The kick-off event features Ethiopia and Mali. The celebration is an opportunity to experience Philadelphia’s vibrant and growing African and Caribbean immigrant population.

According to the event organizers, the goal of WestPac Fest is to “break down the cultural and ethnic barriers among communities in West Philly, promote a friendly, and welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds, and together build a place where diversity is recognized and valued.”

This year‘s celebration is a tribute to the late Ms. Frances P. Aulston, President and CEO of the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance and the Paul Robeson House, who played a big role in the preservation of the last residence of Paul Robeson, a legendary artist, scholar, athlete, activist, and humanitarian. 

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, please email info@palmssolutions.org

Also, check out these two events at Clark Park, both happening on Saturday:

Uhuru Book Fair & Flea Market – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Clark Park “B” (43rd and Chester). This is the last market in the 2015 Uhuru Flea Market season. In addition to wonderful used and handcrafted items from local vendors and vendors who travel specifically for the Uhuru markets, the Book Fair will feature African authors and book sellers, children’s books ad activities, and resources for literacy. There will be bikes, arts, crafts, jewelry, clothes, food, antiques, books, records, collectibles, and more for sale! Also, featuring performances of spoken word, poetry, live music, and dance, as well as guest speakers. For more info, visit the event’s Facebook page.

Pumpkin Day – 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Clark Park “B” – Mosaic Community Church will be hosting its annual Pumpkin Day in Clark Park. Come and bring your kids and neighbors to enjoy some fall fun, including free pumpkins to decorate and take home. There will also be fall themed crafts, games and prizes, face-painting, and treats.

For more weekend events, check our Events Calendar.