The 34th annual Bowling Green International Festival is set to return to Circus Square Park on Saturday, September 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with Service One Credit Union once again presenting the event. This day-long celebration of cultural diversity will offer a rich tapestry of performances, food, and activities for attendees of all ages.
This year’s festival will feature three stages showcasing a mix of traditional and modern music and dance performances. A highlight of the 2024 event is the inclusion of several new groups, including Yeti Ensemble, a trio of musician-dancers from Guinea, West Africa, and Seefari, offering a blend of reggae, dub, rock, jazz, and Latin influences. Attendees will also experience the Belles of Bluegrass, specializing in classical and folk dance from India, along with performances from Teine O Samoa, a Samoan dance troupe, and Tropic Society, known for their Caribbean jazz fusion. Returning favorites include performances from India, Mexico, Spain, Myanmar, China, and other countries, while the unique Celtic, tribal, and Appalachian steampunk sound of Tuatha Dea will be featured twice during the event.
For those looking to get involved in the action, this year’s festival will also offer free dance lessons, thanks to a partnership with La Gala. Hosted by Kelsey Tullis of SoKY Dance Arts Performance Troupe, these lessons will be held indoors throughout the day. A full schedule of performances and dance lessons can be found at the festival’s website.
Festivalgoers can also explore an international bazaar and sample a variety of authentic foreign foods. For those interested in participating in the event, the festival is still accepting applications for booth hosts and volunteers through its website.
Tickets are available now through Eventbrite at a discounted price of $5, half off the $10 door price. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Attendees can also purchase Restaurant Discount Cards, which offer a 10% discount at 58 local eateries, for half price through Eventbrite, with pickup available at the festival. These cards will be sold for $10 after the event at Mellow Matt’s Music & More. The festival’s Merchandise Booth will feature a new T-shirt design, along with stickers, pins, and magnets bearing the festival logo.
In addition to the in-person festivities, the festival offers year-round engagement through its virtual recipe box and children’s coloring pages, available on the festival’s website. The coloring pages, designed by local artist McKayla Cash, are based on past festivals.
The annual K-12 Poster Contest will also be a part of the festival, with winners selected by staff at the Warren County Attorney’s Office. A People’s Choice award will be determined by the festival’s Facebook followers, with voting beginning Monday, September 16.
The Bowling Green International Festival takes place rain or shine. For more information on the event, ticket purchases, or to get involved, visit www.BGInternationalFest.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
