Sixth Annual Renton Multicultural Festival Takes Place This Weekend

RENTON, WA —Renton will be hosting the sixth annual Renton Multicultural Festival this weekend, which will include over two dozen performances, food, an art show, a fashion show and activities for the kids.

The free event will take place on Friday and Saturday.

At 6 p.m. Friday, the Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S 3rd St., will host the first night of performances. Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone will be on hand to welcome guests and performers. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

On Saturday, performances will take place indoors at the Renton Pavilion Event Center, 233 Burnett Ave S., and outdoors at the adjacent Piazza Park.

Performances will begin on the indoor Pavilion Dance Stage at 11:10 a.m. Saturday, and on the outdoor Piazza Park Music Stage at 11:30 a.m. The festival will close at 3 p.m. Saturday.

Also on Saturday, cultural information tables will be set up inside the Pavilion and the first-ever Multicultural Art Exhibition and Contest will take place.

"Interact with local artists, learn about various cultures and vote for your favorite artwork. A People's Choice Award will go to the winner based on your votes," event organizers said about the art exhibition.

As far as food, the Rain City Too food truck is scheduled to be on hand at S. Third Street in front of Piazza Park on Saturday. Festivalgoers also are encouraged to visit local restaurants and businesses.

The festival's full performance schedule is available online.

Among the Friday highlights are:

• Marco DeCarvalho on Brazilian Guitar
• Indian singer Samika Singh
• Filipino Student Union ethnic dances
• Rowan Fae Irish Dancers

Among the featured performers on Saturday are:

• Chennai Beats Bollywood
• Anokye Agofomma African Drums
• Theatre 33 Puppet Show
• Zambuko Marimba Ensemble

The Multicultural Fashion Show is scheduled for 2:35 p.m. Saturday on the Pavilion Stage.