Smyrna, TN - The Town of Smyrna is known for its Southern charm and hospitality, and that was evident everywhere you walked Saturday night at the Simply Smyrna Celebration. From the police officers who bent over backwards to help and make visitors feel welcome, to the volunteers from Carpi Artista, the events coordinator. 

Carpe Artista - The Simply Smyrna Celebration started as a "street party" 13-years-ago (2011). It was birthed by ideas from a non-profit that was formed back then. Carpe Artista's purpose has been to train individuals in various fields. Notice the word "Artist" in their name? 

According to the group's website, it purpose is to "provide artistic training, leadership development, and community engagement opportunities to help young creatives rxeach their potential."

There were multiple stages throughout the Historic Depot District with plenty of local restaurants offering their fare, food trucks, vendors and more. 

The gentle breeze and temps in the upper 70s made the evening even more enjoyable. 

International Folkfest - The large turnout thoroughly enjoyed all of the visiting dance troupes here for the International Folkfest. 

38-years ago (1986) another non-profit, The International Folkloric Society Planning Council, Inc. was organized with a mission to promote and preserve international cultural heritage with a primary focus on the arts. This Murfreesboro based group was the first of its kind in the United States. 

Steve Cates told WGNS, "Folkfest events were popular all over Europe, and Rutherford County's Cripple Creek Cloggers performed their Appalachian style of music and dancing at those distant events."

This year, the local International Folkfest features dance troupes and musicians from the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and our own Cripple Creek Cloggers. 

Cates noted, "After the Cripple Creek Cloggers started their Rutherford County event, others groups across the nation jumped on-board. The popularity of these events exploded in the United States--they were everywhere. 

To learn more about the non-profit Carpe Artista educational program, visit their website http:CarpeArtista.com.