Published on Newsplex
Tom Tom Founders Festival Takes over IX Art Park on Friday
On Friday evening, IX Art Park turned into a large festival of music, food trucks, and local technological companies.
“We are celebrating Charlottesville, and all of the facets that make it unique and really make it shine,” said Celia Castleman, the Project Manager for the Tom Tom Founders Festival.
The festival shows off the work that Charlottesville-based companies or people have done that have left a mark on the town, as well as hands out awards to individuals who have dedicated their life to making Charlottesville better.
This year’s recepients included: Phil Wendel, the founder of fitness center ACAC, and Boyd Tinsley, one of the founding members of the Dave Matthews Band and the nonprofit organization Bama Works.
“This is something that sets us apart from other cities and towns,” said Castleman. “It’s why we keep getting recognized as best place to live.”
The festival also focuses on the companies that could shape the future of Charlottesville. Friday’s events included a “tech mixer” where more than 50 technological startups and established companies showed off their work, and representatives talked to locals about job opportunities and future plans.
“So I hope the students make connections with the startups and the businesses,” said Castleman. “And I hope something just sparks, and that it doesn’t end here.”
Saturday’s events will mainly be focused on art, with the main event being the painting of a mural that will remain in IX Art Park. Doors open at noon. Admission is free.
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