Aurora’s signature event, Global Fest, expands with new performances and more vendors for 11th year

Talented performers, skillful merchants, popular community vendors and unique international restaurants highlight the exciting 11th year of Aurora's signature event, Global Fest, sponsored by GED Testing Services.

The free, fun, family friendly event returns from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. This unique multicultural event brings together the sights, sounds and flavors of nations from around the world to celebrate the diverse people and communities that call Aurora home. Global Fest includes two stages of vibrant traditional performances, nearly 20 food trucks featuring recipes from across the world, an international marketplace, the Parade of Nations, a Fashion Show, art displays, creative activities for children and more than fifty vendors.

"Every year, Global Fest grows in size and attendance because it is unlike any event in Colorado; Aurora truly is 'The World in a City,' and Global Fest is the best place to experience it on display," said Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman.

"Taste" the world in an area smaller than a football field at Global Fest with 18 different food vendors serving cuisine from Central America, South America, Africa, Asia, and beyond, so guests should bring their appetite. Additionally, the winners of the first Global Flavors competition will be announced.

For entertainment, Aurora-based Colorado Soccer Foundation will host clinics for kids on two mini-soccer fields. Popular musical groups Gino Rael and the Mighty Nice Band and Son de la Zona will end the day with energetic concerts to get the crowd up and dancing. In between, other on-stage acts include Taekwondo demonstrations, Afro-fusion music, Mexican ballet folklorico, Taiwanese tea-picking dances and much more.

"Aurora is one of the most diverse cities in Colorado, with one in five people identifying as foreign born, and we are proud to support our community; Global Fest is an inclusive showcase of our international cultures, and it is meaningful when we can share our traditions with others," said Ricardo Gambetta, manager of Aurora's Office of International and Immigrant Affairs. "We invite everyone to join the celebration."

Other Global Fest sponsors include Alpine Bank, Donate Life Colorado, LTC Language Solutions, Falck Rocky Mountain, Consulate General of Guatemala, UCHealth, MAJORITY, AuroraTV and CBS Colorado.

Visit AuroraGlobalFest.org for additional event information.