Heat doesn't hold back crowds at Tucson Meet Yourself

Despite the return of heat on Friday, large crowds of people gathered at Tucson Meet Yourself Folklife Festival in downtown Tucson to celebrate different cultures in the area.

Tucson Meet Yourself (TMY) is held in multiple areas of downtown Tucson, including El Presidio Park, Jacome Plaza, La Placita Village and Tucson Convention Center Plaza. With nine stages, over 60 different food vendors, and hundreds of art demonstrations and exhibitors spread throughout the event, TMY offers a variety of flavors and entertainment for people of all cultures to appreciate.

The event is often called "Tucson Eat Yourself," and the many food vendors offered wandering festival-goers a wealth of choices.

Will McCullen of the Tucson Seven Pipers Band worked at the pipe and drums band's food station on Friday, offering with Celtic foods such as corned beef sliders and Scottish cornbread.

"It is a fantastic place to be able to appreciate the multi-cultures of Tucson," said McCullen.

Another group set out to spread the word about their organization at TMY is Lions Clubs, who is working the Pepsi stands at the event to raise money for charity.

"We are the world's largest service organization, and probably the least well known," said Sandy Shiff, a member of Lions Clubs. 

"This is a great way for us to make money and support charitable organizations," said another member, Ron Richman. 

There are many different types of entertainment, ranging from dancers to musicians representing multiple different cultures.

Saguaro Stompers Clog Dance Company showcased their own talents as well as taught the audience some clog steps to take home.

"Clogging is a dying art for Tucson. We want to let people know it's out there and it's just as much fun as anything else," said Connie Rich, one of the cloggers.

Michael and Cindy Hogan attended the event of Friday and have been coming to TMY for around 15 years, they said.

"It's great to be outside with everyone at TMY," said Cindy Hogan.

The Blowers family was another group in attendance on Friday at TMY. Paul Blowers came to the event with his wife and two children, and they are not new to the festival.

"I think my favorite part is getting to share new foods with the kids," said Paul Blowers.

When asked what his favorite part of TMY is, Max Blowers, 6, replied "the music!" 

TMY continues throughout this weekend on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about performances, food vendors, and the event visit www.tucsonmeetyourself.org.