Festival celebrates diversity

A Japanese drumming group perform during Global Fest 2010. Photo / File.

How often can you take a world trip for just $5?

That's exactly what's on offer at Global Fest 2013, taking place at the Rotorua International Stadium next Saturday.

Event manager Alexis LewGor, the president of the Rotorua Multicultural Council, said the event was a chance for Rotorua residents to experience the food, music, dance and colour of more than 20 cultures.

"It's the only festival of this type in the district . . . where can you go on a world trip and visit over 20 different cultures in once place?"

She said Rotorua was incredibly diverse, with more than 70 languages spoken in the city.

Rotorua's charitable cultural groups will each set up their own village at the stadium and there will be non-stop entertainment on a large central stage.

Ms LewGor said she expected 5000 to 6000 people to attend the event.

Marketing manager Vivien Cooper said as people entered the stadium, they would be given a "passport".

"They then can visit as many villages as they can and get the stamp.

"The kids love it, they can keep it as a souvenir."

Mrs Cooper said she encouraged visitors to "taste, taste, taste".

"You don't have to go to Indonesia or Ghana or Korea, you can sample the amazing assortment of food [right here]."

Mrs Cooper said there will also be collection boxes for people to donate to those affected by the recent Philippines typhoon.

The event runs from 10am until 4pm. Entry is $5 adults, $2 children. For more information see www.globalfest.co.nz