Can Educate Ronald J. Hustedde Assistant Extension Professor Sociology Department College of Agriculture University of Kentucky-Lexington Many Extension educators may be overlooking community festivals as an adult education tool. Festivals are often party- like events emphasizing food and fanfare. As a result, some critics view them as an inappropriate setting for carrying out Extension's educational mission. Festivals, however, can be great educational settings. First, they're likely to attract people who might not take part in a seminar or workshop.
Festivals are more inclusive of all groups in a community.
They may also be the most effective setting in which to teach certain ideas. For example, the festival concept has been used to share ethnic and minority cultures and values through dance, music, art, and foods with the larger community. It becomes a mutual exchange. In contrast, workshops and lectures on minority culture may only attract intellectual elites who are already sensitive to minority issues. Building a stronger sense of community.