Tulsa Global District To Hold Its First Festival Saturday

The Tulsa Global District is ready to hold its first public event on March 5. Organizers and volunteers said they are excited to showcase the diverse talents of Tulsa and 200 businesses near 21st and Garnett.

The east side of Nam Hai International Market is turning into a festival Saturday called "The Square at Nam Hai." There will be food trucks, performances, vendors, activities, even salsa lessons all to highlight the diversity of east Tulsa.

"We've seen a lot of disinvestment in this area over time, and so I think by having a group that's really focused on the area, we can start to see more investment,” said Luisa Krug, executive director of Tulsa Global District. “Hopefully, investment from public and private."

Krug said the non-profit's goal is to help these businesses grow and attract visitors. Nam Le, whose family owns Nam Hai, and loaned their parking lot for the festival, said he is already seeing a difference.

"Everybody always thinks east Tulsa, you know, needed something because it's always like, 'Oh, bad side of town' or whatever, but now since that Global District community came together, it's helping businesses and all the organizations around here," said Le.

Rodrigo Rojas with the City of Tulsa, said this is the fastest-growing area in Tulsa and the city is excited to build on the success of the hard work here.

"How it could really shift what perceptions of what may be of the area, but just more importantly, how do we revive and support an area that's already been thriving for decades?" explained Rojas.

"The Square at Nam Hai” is taking place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the east side of Nam Hai on March 5.

Organizers hope to have 500 people attend. News On 6’s Chinh Doan will be one of the emcees in the afternoon.

More information on the event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/316700987063176