File Photo by Philip B. Poston/Sentinel Colorado
AURORA | Global Fest, Aurora’s signature multicultural celebration, returns earlier than usual this year, bringing its annual display of international food, music, crafts and culture.
African clothing, handicrafts from the Marshall Islands, a musical tribute to music legend Selena and Indian, Filipino and Panamanian cuisine; all that and much more, a statement from the city said.
“This is a chance to explore the world right here in our city,” said Ricardo Gambetta, Aurora’s manager of International and Immigrant Affairs, in a statement.
The 12th annual event is free, family-friendly and returns 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 14 at the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.
“Global Fest is Aurora’s signature event for a reason,” Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman said in a statement. “It celebrates so much of the international food, art and culture that makes the city a special place.”
There will be roughly 20 food trucks and booths, as well as more than 60 vendors, including toy makers and clothing artisans. The popular Parade of Nations will return, along with an international fashion show and two stages of live performances, featuring dance, music and martial arts demonstrations.
Portrait by PHILIP B. POSTON/Sentinel Colorado
“Every year, we seek the community’s feedback to make Global Fest even better than the year before,” Gambetta said in the statement.
This year’s festivities will include bounce structures and inflatable soccer skills challenges for kids. Aurora resident Mayra Alejandra and her band will perform a special tribute to the legacy of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Their concert will follow an all-ages Selena look-alike contest, sponsored by Amigos de Mexico, which will include multiple age categories and prizes for top finishers, according to the statement.
“This unique multicultural festival highlights the diverse flavors, sights and sounds that make Aurora special, celebrating many of the cultures and communities that call Aurora home,” according to a statement from the city.
Between the Aurora Stage and One World Stage, there will be more than two dozen performances this year, representing cultures from five continents.
In addition to Colorado Access, this year’s Global Fest is sponsored by Donor Alliance, Alpine Bank, LTC, UC Health, Embassy of Nepal and CBS Colorado.
For more information, including an event schedule, map and details about parking and accessible shuttles to the event, visitAuroraGlobalFest.org.