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International Festival of Cultures kicks off Sept. 13
The Marianas Visitors Authority kicks off its newest annual signature event, the International Festival of Cultures, on Sept. 13, 2014.
Organized in conjunction with the Commonwealth Council for Arts & Culture and PDM Promoters, the festival will be staged for four consecutive Saturdays at the Paseo de Marianas pedestrian mall in Garapan.
The Marianas Visitors Authority organizes a series of signature events each year to attract more visitors and enhance their visiting experience while on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. (MVA FILE PHOTO)
“The goal of the International Festival of Cultures is to showcase the unique and diverse cultures of our islands for both visitors and our local community,” said MVA Community Projects manager Martin Duenas. “With this in mind, we hope the International Festival of Cultures will become just as popular at the annual Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden staged during May Tourism Month.”
Slated for Sept. 13, 20, and 27 and Oct. 4, 2014, on each night various cultural groups from the Pacific and Asia will showcase their heritage through performing arts, cuisine, and arts and crafts. Demonstration booths will feature basket weaving, mwar-making (floral head lei), storyboard carving, origami paper folding, and more.
In addition, a parade of cultures will be held on Oct. 4 at 5:30pm in Garapan from the Carolinian Affairs Office north along Beach Road to American Memorial Park, ending at Coral Tree Avenue.
“We hope everyone will make it a point to stop by the International Festival of Cultures this year and share this opportunity with our visitors,” said Duenas.
Booths will open at 5pm. Performances begin at 6pm and the event will run until 11pm. Admission is free and open to the public. (MVA)
