Cultures Unite Through Dance at Summer Festival
The Raum der Begegnung became a vibrant dance floor on July 5, 2025, as people from diverse cultural backgrounds came together to celebrate through movement and music. The Summer Dance Festival showcased the rich multicultural fabric of Freising's community in an afternoon of cross-cultural connection.
Undeterred by soaring temperatures, participants filled the converted restaurant space with energy and enthusiasm. Two regular user groups of the Raum der Begegnung contributed to the program: the local Volkstanzkreis Freising folk dance group and the Chinese Cultural Association. Each group demonstrated traditional dances from their heritage before inviting everyone to join in.
Breaking barriers through movement
"Watching people from completely different cultural backgrounds connect through dance was truly moving," said Andreas Malecki, Chairman of the support association. The diverse crowd included participants with Ukrainian, Afghan, and Chinese heritage, alongside current and former board members of the support organization.
The Volkstanzkreis Freising brought traditional Bavarian and Alpine folk dances to life, teaching guests everything from basic steps to intricate choreography. Meanwhile, the Chinese Cultural Association captivated audiences with elegant movements and rhythms from their homeland.
Between performances, animated conversations flourished as guests shared stories about their experiences and cultures. These spontaneous exchanges created the festival's warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Community feast
Food played a central role in the celebration. While organizers provided beverages, participants contributed a potluck of homemade specialties that reflected the group's cultural diversity, sparking further conversation and connection.
Spreading the word
The festival gained additional visibility through the City of Freising's "Zehntelsekunde" action weeks program guide, which drew several first-time visitors to the Raum der Begegnung.
Mission accomplished
Event organizer Waschma Şahin, Vice-Chairwoman of the support association, declared the festival a resounding success. "This event perfectly demonstrated what happens when people approach each other with openness and curiosity," she said. "Dancing together proved to be an incredibly effective way to break down barriers and build new friendships."
The Raum der Begegnung has served as a beacon for tolerance and democracy since 2011, and this afternoon once again fulfilled its core mission: providing a welcoming space where people of all backgrounds can meet and connect.