By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
Flandreau Friday returns to downtown Flandreau in just over a week, bringing another year of music, food, culture and family activities to one of the region’s most diverse small-town communities.
Now in its fifth year, the event was launched in 2021 as a way to highlight and celebrate the many cultures that call Flandreau home. While the community has deep Eastern European roots, it is also home to the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe and residents representing dozens of other tribal nations. Large Hispanic and Filipino populations further contribute to the community’s unique cultural makeup.
For a town of fewer than 3,000 residents, organizers say that diversity is something worth celebrating.
What began as an effort to showcase the community’s cultural heritage has evolved into one of the area’s signature summer events, drawing visitors from across the region while also creating opportunities for neighbors to connect.
“We’re excited to bring another year of celebrating our community’s beautiful diversity to downtown Flandreau,” said Bret Severtson, one of the committee members.
“We’ve got a great lineup of entertainment and food vendors to go along with various activities in our kid’s area. We hope to have another great turnout on the 19th.”
The event often introduces people who may live, work or attend school together, but whose paths might not otherwise cross.
This year’s celebration will feature cultural performances, music, food, demonstrations and activities throughout the downtown area. Entertainment will be centered near the Wind Street intersection, while a family zone with activities for children will be located in the small park across from the Flandreau Bakery.
In addition to Flandreau Friday, citywide garage sales will be taking place throughout the community that weekend, with many sales beginning Friday evening and continuing through Saturday.
The event is free and open to the public. Additional details on performers, vendors and activities will be announced on the organization’s Facebook page as the date approaches.
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