Somali Heritage Celebration Brings African Culture to Downtown Fargo

Somalians make up a significant portion of the immigrant population in Fargo-Moorhead.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – People of all nationalities gathered in Broadway Square this Saturday to celebrate Somalian culture.

Folkways partnered with the Immigrant Development Center, amongst other organizations, to host the Somali Heritage Celebration, which took place on July 5 from 5 to 8 P.M.

According to the organizers, Somalians first started arriving in the Fargo-Moorhead area in the 90s and now make up a significant amount of the local immigrant population.

The celebration featured traditional dance, authentic cuisine, and historical artifacts on display.

Those in charge said it felt good to have a place where they could express pride in their background.

“It’s healing for us, therapeutic and healing for us, because of what’s going on with immigrants,” explained Ahmed Makaraan. “Coming together, celebrating all of us, just makes sense. And it’s a great way to showcase who we are.”

Somalia’s Independence Day is July 1, so organizers said it made sense to have the celebration as close as possible to that date.