Culturafest is a vibrant and intentional celebration of community, culture, and connection hosted by Raíces of Kern. Born from the vision to create an inclusive space that uplifts and honors the diverse heritage of Kern County, Culturafest brings together families, artists, educators, small businesses, and local leaders in a day of unity and pride. It's more than just a festival—it's a movement that centers culture as a powerful tool for healing, empowerment, and resistance.
At its core, Culturafest is about reclaiming space. Through music, food, art, dance, and storytelling, we create an environment where our traditions are not only seen and heard but celebrated. We honor our ancestors and affirm our identities while making space for the voices of youth and future generations. From local performances and cultural exhibits to workshops and resource booths, every element of Culturafest is designed to reflect the richness and resilience of our community.
Culturafest is also a platform for advocacy, visibility, and impact. A key part of the event is its support for scholarships for local youth, with proceeds benefiting Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation. By investing in educational opportunities, Culturafest helps remove barriers for first-generation students and empowers the next generation of community leaders to pursue their dreams.
Whether it’s supporting small vendors, elevating mental health conversations, or highlighting stories of immigration and resistance, Culturafest stands as a bold declaration: our culture matters, our voices matter, and our youth deserve every opportunity to thrive.
One of the most meaningful visual elements at Culturafest is our community tree, proudly adorned with the flags of every country celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month. This powerful symbol represents the rich cultural roots that nourish and strengthen our community. In a spirit of inclusivity and respect, we’ve also chosen to include the flag of India—honoring the heritage of our members who are of Indian descent. This intentional gesture reflects our belief that cultural pride should be expansive, intersectional, and grounded in solidarity. At Raíces of Kern, we recognize that our strength lies in our diversity, and we are proud to create spaces where all identities are valued and celebrated.