Waterbury Thoughts: The Gathering in Library Park 2017

If the whole world got together for a party, it might look something like this. This was the fifth year of The Gathering, celebrating the many cultures that make Waterbury a wonderfully diverse city, with music, dance, food, and more.

It was hot in the sun, so the Italian ice vendors probably did very well.

Filming at the dance stage.

There were so many food vendors, I know I missed a ton.

The day was hot, but there was a lovely breeze making it easy to cool down in the shade.

Mayor O'Leary launched the festivities from the dance stage.

Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim marched in the parade and said
he might try to organize a Bridgeport version of The Gathering.

Geraldo Reyes, Jr., one of The Gathering's organizers.

Reyes and fellow State Representative Minnie Gonzales (D-Hartford)
raised money for Puerto Rico during this year's Gathering.

Albania was the first to dance this year.

Albanian dancers

Roasting corn.

Brazil Samba

Dominican masks

A Waterbury tradition: Italian-American pizza made by Albanians

Chelsea Kaneb emceed the Children's Stage

Shaded seating behind Lithuania's tent.

Lithuania brought beer

Club Dominicano CT

Fly Ry (Ryan Hendricks) and Crew. Fly Ry is an incredibly talented poet and rapper.
His powerful Dirty Water, which he performed at The Gathering, is on YouTube.

Geraldo Reyes and John Murray in a rare moment pausing for a camera during the event they created but barely get to enjoy, since they spend the whole time running around making sure everything goes smoothly.

Loved watching the man with the Puerto Rican flag dancing all afternoon. He was alone, but he was clearly enjoying every minute of the music, filled with joy as he danced.