This program is supported in part by a grant from the Haverhill Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
This year’s Multicultural Festival, planned by the Haverhill Cultural Council, features familiar favorite performers and new acts.
The free festival is Saturday, June 14, from noon to 6 p.m., at the Grand Army of the Republic Park, opposite Haverhill Public Library on Main Street. The event is rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, it will move to the Haverhill Citizens Center, 10 Welcome St.
“The mission of the Multicultural Festival is to celebrate the diversity of our community,” said organizer McKenna R. Jennings.
Returning is the popular Veronica Robles All Female Mariachi Band. Also on the program is Sultana with original folksongs related to Haverhill, the Mamadou Band which offers reggae and salsa music, Tempo International, an Afro-Caribbean steelpan band, and Tony Giblin and Eamon Coyne, who play traditional Irish music. Fotia Live, a traditional and modern Greek band will make an appearance as will Grupo Fantasia which offers Latin rhythms.
Artisans offering their wares in the vendor market are African Authentics, which will sell jewelry and beaded animals from Zimbabwe, the NAAM Artisans, which will showcase crafts made by recently arrived immigrants, and Kanu’s International Tailoring and Clothing.
The Nichiren Buddhist Sangha of New England is planning a booth as will Marigold Montessori School.
Kids Corner highlights will include a visit by the alpacas from the Harvard Alpaca Ranch and arts and crafts tables offered by the Essex Art Center in Lawrence and the Haverhill YMCA. The Haverhill Public Library will offer a story time and will be showcasing cookbooks from several cultures which are in its collection.
Food trucks will offer Caribbean, Moroccan and Korean food as well as French pastries and ice cream.
Updated listings of vendors and performers appear on Haverhill Cultural Council’s Facebook page.
