KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – Keene’s eighth annual International Festival is set for Saturday, bringing food, music, dance, crafts and cultural activities from around the world to the Keene Recreation Center.

During an interview on WKBK, festival organizers Aggie Cercosimo and Lisa Abohatab discussed what visitors can expect at this year’s event. The free festival runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is organized by volunteers with support from sponsors, the City of Keene and the recreation center.

The festival will feature a continuous lineup of performances, including Jamaican reggae, Colombian dance, Peruvian dancers, Indian music and martial arts, English Morris dancing and Japanese martial arts. Organizers say the program includes both returning performers and new offerings this year.

Food vendors will offer a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Pakistani, Peruvian, Eastern European, Mexican and Finnish options. There will also be craft vendors selling jewelry, crochet, paintings, candles, souvenirs and other goods connected to cultures from countries including El Salvador, India, Peru, Rwanda, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Children’s activities are also planned, with possible offerings including Japanese balloons, German hammering, henna, calligraphy and other cultural crafts. Some activities were still being finalized ahead of the event.

Organizers say the festival is designed to give people an opportunity to meet others with connections to different countries, ask questions and learn about traditions through food, clothing, music and art. Admission and performances are free, while food and crafts will be available for purchase.

Most performances can be moved indoors if weather conditions deteriorate, though food vendors are expected to remain outside.