Lindy RybloomFor more than 25 years, the World Beat Festival has been Salem’s annual celebration of global diversity. From June 26 through 28, the city will highlight the culture of Pacific Islanders: Navigators of the Sea at Salem’s Riverfront Park. All are welcome to this family-friendly weekend of performance, food, interactive activities, and tradition. Don’t know where to start? Here are some highlights of the weekend.
Craving a bite?
Stop by Orionz Island Fusion for a Mini Chicken Kelaguen Sampler. Originating from Guam and the Mariana Islands, this dish consists of shredded cooked chicken marinated in citrus juice, tossed with spicy peppers, onions, and coconut.
Head over to Guamanian Grill for Tamales Gisu. This spot offers a unique version of the classic dish. Look forward to a savory corn tamale traditionally served in the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam.
Little India is serving Gulab Jamun, a tasty dessert made of deep-fried dough balls that have been drenched in syrup and topped with various spices.
All listed food items are located in the amphitheater.
Interested in dance performances?
Fire Show – Kicking off the weekend festivities, this thrilling show features a performance from the Ballet Folklorico Tlanese and Paradise of Samoa dance groups and is sure to leave you fired up for the rest of the festival. 9 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 26 at the amphitheater (as part of Friday Night at the Beat)
Dra Rik Dron Dancers – Bringing to life the spirit of the Marshall Islands, the performed dances will represent unity, harmony, and working together as a community. 1:45 to 2:45 p.m. Saturday, June 27 in Asia Pacific Village.
Looking to experience culture?
Wilson Gagilelig, a reggae artist from Micronesia, will present about Lava-Lava – a traditional garment worn in Micronesia and some outer islands of Chuuk. The article of clothing represents identity and cultural pride through its unique, handwoven creation. 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Saturday, June 27 in the Cultural Center.
Azigza Hussen, the owner of Salem’s first and only Ethiopian restaurant, Gursha Eats, will present about the meaning of “Gursha,” the Ethiopian tradition of feeding one another by hand as a symbol of love, friendship, and respect. Guests can also look forward to a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and an engaging cultural dance session. 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. Sunday, June 28 in the Cultural Center.
World Beat Festival
When: June 26-28 (Note: 26 is Amphitheater only)
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St NE
Cost: $5 per day; $10 for the weekend. Youth 14 and younger are free.
Plan your weekend
View the 2026 World Beat Festival program here.
The Instigator
Carlee Wright
