Columbia's Annual Manifest Festival Hits the Sloop this Friday (5/13)

As a resident of the South Loop it's impossible to miss Columbia's impact on the neighborhood. Whether it's the numerous buildings, the students, or the many cultural contributions the college brings to the neighborhood, the school has definitely helped in defining what the South Loop has become.

As a person who did not attend the school and doesn't have an in-depth knowledge of it, it's interesting to hear and read more about their mission. Every year, the school puts on their Manifest Urban Arts Festival that engulfs the neighborhood in elaborate events and an overwhelming explosion of creative thoughts and ideas. This year's event comes to the neighborhood this Friday (5/13) at various locations in the South Loop.

It's not surprising to see unimaginable costumes walking down the street on Wabash or pulsating music and dance reverberating throughout the streets of the Sloop. As an outsider I watch with amazement, but don't get to close because frankly I don't know what is going on.

Well this year, I've had some time to dig a little deeper and learn a little more about what the Manifest festival is all about. Thanks to this video it sums it up (or at least sheds a little light on the mission):


For those intrigued, check out the website for additional information. It seems like it's always an interesting spectacle and if you're walking around the Sloop on Friday you can't miss it!