Fusion Fest brings cultural celebrations and hands-on experiences

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- For the first time in more than 20 years, South Bend Venues Parks and Arts hosted Fusion Fest, a re-imagined version of the event formerly known as the Ethnic Festival.

Beyond the wide array of food options, Fusion Fest is also an excellent opportunity to learn about what the city of South Bend has to offer when it comes to hands-on and interactive experiences.

Several different stages were spread across the "continents" at different parts of Howard Park, each featuring different cultural examples of art, music, dance or activity. 

In total, more than 50 vendors were placed throughout Howard Park.

Part of the revamped festival included an emphasis on added security, as the festival dealt with issues of fighting and violence in previous years.

In addition to an increased police presence, SBVPA added extra security and had the fire department and water rescue on-hand to make sure attendees felt safe. 

That security was put to the test Saturday night, as according to South Bend police, the fireworks display was canceled part-way through the show due to fighting between juveniles. Police confirmed that no one was injured during the altercation. 

Anyone who missed out on the event on Saturday can visit for day two from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the same location. 

More information on the festivities can be found here.