City of Long Beach, CA

09/16/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/16/2021 11:39

Long Beach Youth Festival Welcomes Those Ages 12 to 24

Long Beach, CA - The inaugural Long Beach Youth Festival, the signature event of the Long Beach Commission on Youth and Families and the City of Long Beach's new Office of Youth Development, is happening Saturday, September 25, 2021. Registration is open now for the free event, which aims to bring together those ages 12 to 24 and their families and other stakeholders to experience local talent, engage in network opportunities and discover a wealth of resources to uplift and inspire young people.

'I am excited to see the launch of an annual forum for young people in Long Beach,' said Mayor Robert Garcia. 'The Long Beach Youth Festival will play an important role in the implementation of the Long Beach Strategic Plan for Youth and Emerging Adults - a plan resulting from significant community engagement efforts of the Invest in Youth Campaign to uplift the voices of Long Beach's future leaders.'

The Long Beach Youth Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Houghton Park (6301 Myrtle Ave.), where attendees can expect: youth-centric seminars and panels; performances and showcases from local poets, writers, singers and dancers; interactive fun activities; and a family resource fair. Lunch will be provided in conjunction with a panel featuring young leaders from throughout the city.

'The intent of the Strategic Plan for Youth and Emerging Adults is to mobilize the entire community to strengthen and create pathways that will improve the health, mental health, well-being and economic mobility of youth,' said Youth and Family Commission Member Dr. Sara Zaidi. 'The inaugural Youth Festival is an important milestone for the work we are leading in partnership with Long Beach youth. The day's event will bring together amazing talent, fascinating speakers, invaluable local resources and fun activities for families.'

The event is free, but registration is highly encouraged. Online registration is now open at www.bit.ly/lbyfest. Or, call 562.570.3762 for more information.