Organizers seek city support for second annual International Cultural Festival on Oct. 25

Organizers of the Peace Academy of West Texas told the Odessa City Council on Sept. 9 they plan a second annual International Cultural Festival on Oct. 25 from 4 to 8 p.m. and asked for city cooperation, equipment support and possible small financial help.

The request was presented by a local business owner who said he volunteers with the nonprofit Peace Academy of West Texas and is coordinating the festival. He said last year the event hosted 13 cultures and organizers expect 35-plus cultures and about 1,500 attendees this year. The presenter asked whether the city could loan tents (the city has four available) and consider “some small financial” support for additional tents and incidental costs.

The organizer described festival goals as community unity, cultural heritage, support for local artists and businesses, youth engagement and improved city branding. He told council members the event will include food, cultural displays, dance and youth volunteers (about 200 expected) and that Odessa College, local Lions Club chapters, churches and other nonprofits are partners. He said most attendees have been local, with occasional visitors from Lubbock and El Paso.

Council members thanked the presenter, one council member encouraged attendance, and staff noted the meeting was a workshop and no action could be taken that day; the item will be added to the agenda for the next council meeting for formal consideration.

Organizers gave the event date as Oct. 25, 4–8 p.m. and said they plan to ask the council for formal cooperation and limited city resources at a future meeting.