The InstigatorCelebrate. Dance. Discover. Explore. Learn.
The World Beat Festival is an exploration of heritage that encourages people to experience the world, feast on ethnic food and connect to culture through crafts, demonstrations, children’s activities, parades and dragon boat racing. This year’s theme celebrates the Philippines with “Mabuhay Philipinas!”
Here are our five reasons it should be on your MUST-DO list.
It’s not just for kids!
Sure there are children’s activities – each village has its own children’s area where kids can craft and learn – but the festival is so much more than a kid’s event. From the food to the music to the performance, there is something for all ages. Oh, and for the adults, there’s a beer garden, too!
Non-stop entertainment
Whether you crave the rhythmic sound of Taiko drumming or Scottish pipes are your jam, the festival features an immersive lineup of performers all weekend long. From the moment the gates open, you can explore non-stop entertainment in seven areas. Hear live music. Watch dance performances. See unique cooking demonstrations.
Eat your way around the world!
With more than 20 vendors offering cultural food, you can eat your way around the world. From Japanese takoyaki to Spanish paella to Chinese steamed BBQ pork humbao, there is a delicious variety of culinary treats both savory and sweet. Some vendors may only accept cash so plan accordingly.
Get a cultural education
More than 70 cultures are represented throughout the festival. Visit vendor booths to shop their crafts. Meet local and area nonprofit organizations representing and celebrating heritage and traditions. Connect with the cultures of our greater community.
Organized locally, focused internationally
The World Beat Festival is a home-grown event that’s been happening for more than 25 years. “It is produced by a group of passionate volunteers and staff who create a place and event where people of all heritages can celebrate and share their cultures. By doing so, Salem becomes a better, stronger, more accepting community. Volunteers work all year long in various committees to create, plan, and manage the event.” The festival is the Salem Multicultural Institute’s best-known program, but they also operate year-round cultural exhibits in their World Beat Gallery.
See you at the Beat! (And check out the full program here)
World Beat Festival
When: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 24; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 25
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St. NE
Cost: $10 per day; $15 for weekend pass. Free for age 14 and younger and SNAP Card Holders. Buy tickets in advance here.
Info: worldbeatfestival.org
Carlee Wright
