Richmond’s only multicultural dance festival returns to Deep Run Park Saturday

Richmond’s only multicultural dance festival returns this fall as Culture Encounters presents the 2nd Annual Richmond International Dance Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Deep Run Park.

Last year’s debut drew a strong community turnout. This year, organizers expect an even larger audience with expanded activities. The growth of the festival reflects the success of Culture Encounters’ monthly programs for both kids and adults — from cultural dinners to hands-on family events — and offers Richmonders the chance to experience it all in one immersive day.

Amma Gatty, founder and CEO of Culture Encounters, said the festival is about more than performances. “Our first festival proved the power of dance to bring Richmond together,” Gatty said. “This year builds on that momentum. Through our monthly programs, from family days at the Children’s Museum to cultural dinners at local restaurants, we make connections fun and accessible. The festival brings it all together in one place, on one day, for everyone.”

The festival showcases collaboration among Richmond’s immigrant and first-generation communities. Dance troupes from around the world and food vendors offering global cuisine will present their heritage side by side, bridging cultural gaps through shared movement, music, and food. That same spirit drives Culture Encounters’ year-round programs—from Eat.Talk.Connect. dinners in immigrant-owned restaurants to CultureFest Fridays at the Children’s Museum and community dialogues through Conversations That Connect.

The festival is presented in partnership with Henrico Outreach & Engagement Agency, which works to ensure all residents have access to county services, programs, and cultural opportunities.

“The Henrico Outreach & Engagement Agency is honored to support Culture Encounters’ 2nd Annual Richmond International Dance Festival,” said Raina Vann, multicultural liaison with the agency’s Multicultural Engagement Division. “Our community is enriched by residents who represent diverse cultures and heritages. The International Dance Festival provides a wonderful opportunity to use the universal language of dance to build and strengthen our connections with one another. We invite everyone to experience this incredible sense of belonging.”

Another key partner is BLK RVA, a program of the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation that amplifies Black voices and celebrates cultural experiences across the region.

“BLK RVA is proud to support the second annual Richmond International Dance Festival,” said Tameka Jefferson, Richmond Region Tourism Community Relations and Diversity Program Manager. “Dance is an exciting way to learn about and celebrate the many different cultures here in our region. Our team looks forward to a day full of fun and connection next month.”

A program of the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation, BLK RVA works to attract visitors to the Richmond Region while encouraging locals to explore and celebrate the vibrant Black culture in their own backyard.

Festival Lineup Includes Performances From:

• Sayaw

• Diversity (Filipino)

• Heart of Ireland (Irish)

• Pacific Arts Troupe (Chinese)

• Richmond Kimono Club (Japanese)

• River

• City Taiko (Japanese drummers)

• Kalasattva (Bharatanatyam – South Indian)

• Richmond Breakers (Hip-Hop/Street Dance)

• The Panamania Traditional Dance Group (Panamanian)

• Tap Connection (Tap Dance)

• Stavna Ballet (European classical tradition)

• Yu Dance Arts (Chinese)

• Ajna Tribal (Belly Dance/Fusion)

• Karma (Bollywood/Fusion)

• Nepali Community of Richmond VA (Nepali)

• Heritage Village Project (African)

• Pungmul Play Group (Korean)