CultureFest 2011 slated Saturday

Diverse event to offer music, museum tours wide variety of foods.

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By Mark McGregor, Staff Writer 4:19 PM Wednesday, September 21, 2011

SPRINGFIELD — The sights, sounds and aromas of Springfield’s diverse culture will give residents and visitors a chance to learn, appreciate and celebrate the differences of city’s residents this Saturday.

CultureFest will be held 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on City Hall Plaza. The 15th annual event will feature a tour of the Gammon House, a stop on Springfield’s Underground Railroad Museum, at 2 and 3 p.m., a children’s activity tent and the CultureJam Circle providing interactive lessons in drumming, Zumba, Mexican dance, karate demonstrations and more.

“We just want everyone to have a great time learning and discovering about each other,” said Cheryl Dover, the city’s Minority Business Development coordinator. “Each year I see a change in residents (understanding of each other).”

Musical genres expected this year include: reggae, mariachi, hip-hop, jazz, rock and more with special performances by the Children’s Choir of Springfield City Schools and Springfield High School Marching Band. Hawaiian, Chinese, West African and Egyptian dance groups are expected as well.

Ethnic and traditional foods offered include Indian, Hungarian, Mexican, Greek, Cambodian and American as well as selections of barbecue, grilled pork chops, baked goods and sweets, fruit smoothies, Italian ice, soul food side dishes and more.

Vendors will offer African art and puppets, Italian carved wood animals, handcrafted items, incense and body oils, head wraps, wickless candles, henna tattoos, jewelry, scarves and more. Local author Carolyn Williams is expected to have a booth, along with a host of nonprofit, business, political and law enforcement agencies.

“All we’re doing is praying for great weather. It’s the only thing that could put a damper on the party because we have such a great lineup,” Dover said.

Attendance to Culturefest 2011 remains free thanks to financial donations from companies, organizations and private citizens and time donated by volunteers and staff.

Organizers also noted that no tax funds are used for the festival, thanks to those donations.

For more information on CultureFest 2011, visit www.facebook.com/culturefestspringfield.

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