Our Family’s Experience at the First Romanian-American Festival in Matthews, NC

This past Saturday, our family of four my husband Dane, our two boys Henry and Daniel, and I spent the day at the very first Romanian-American Festival in Matthews, NC, and it was truly unforgettable. From the moment we walked into Stumptown Park, we felt the energy, excitement, and pride that made this event such a special moment for our community.

A Day Filled With Culture, Music, and Family Fun

The boys were immediately pulled in by the photo props, face painting at the entrance area, live music and bright traditional costumes. Romanian folk dancers took the stage early in the afternoon, and our kids were mesmerized. For me, as a Romanian-American, the day held a deeper emotional meaning. I wore my great aunt Magdalena’s traditional Romanian costume, a beautifully embroidered piece meant only for special occasions. Wearing it at this festival was a promise I made to her, and in doing so, I felt profoundly connected to my roots and to my family in a way that brought both pride and warmth to the day.

Kids’ Crafts That Brought Culture to Life

One of the highlights for our boys was the children’s cultural craft zone. They got hands on with Romanian themed activities coloring, making small crafts, and learning snippets of Romanian culture in fun and creative ways. As parents, it was meaningful to see them so engaged and curious about a culture they don’t get to experience every day. They also loved the playground area in Stumptown Park and any excuse to climb up everything outdoors.

Vibrant Vendors & Local Artisans

With over 80 vendors and artisans filling Stumptown Park, we wandered from booth to booth discovering handmade items, traditional goods, traditional costumes, unique art pieces, and locally crafted finds. We really enjoyed talking to the vendors and learning the stories behind their crafts, families and their ties to Romania.

Community Spirit at Its Best

What stood out most was the feeling of togetherness. Families from all backgrounds came out to celebrate, learn, and support this first-of-its-kind event. You could feel the excitement a sense that something new and meaningful was happening in our town.

As a Romanian-American family living in the Carolinas, it was emotional to see our heritage celebrated so openly, and just as powerful to watch our boys experience it firsthand. The festival reminded us how important it is to share stories, traditions, and culture with the next generation.

A New Matthews Tradition in the Making?

By the time the raffles and final performances wrapped up, our boys were already asking if we could come back next year. With the turnout, the energy, and the overwhelming support from the community, it’s clear this festival is on its way to becoming a beloved Matthews tradition.

We’re already looking forward to the next one and we hope even more families will join in.