Travel the world and never leave town

Check it out

What: International Festival, featuring music, dance, food, craft vendors and children’s activities

When: Noon-6 p.m. Saturday

Where: Veterans’ Memorial Center, 203 E. 14th St.

Admission: Free

Info: 530-753-5007 or dir@internationalhousedavis.org

Wanderlust can hit at him time. That itch, that need to get away. Davis residents can scratch that itch and fulfill that need without ever leaving town as the International House, Davis, hosts its second annual International Festival from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Veterans’ Memorial Center, 203 E. 14th St. in Davis.

The free event will offer music, food, dance, a children’s village and many vendors, while also stressing education at this celebration of “unity in diversity.”

The International Festival will fill its stage with unique dancers, drummers and singers. Entertainment begins with an introduction and welcome by International Board President Mary Philip, Davis Mayor Joe Krovoza and stage manager Sandy Holman.

With more than 20 artists from different cultures, the festival is a cornucopia of diversity. Featured artists of the day are Janna Graves, violist Kippy Marks, national award-winning D.J. Michael Cagley, Nathalie Dzokerayi’s International Fashion show, Galena Street East Productions, Grant Drum Line, Pamela Trokanski Theatre and the Third State Dance Company, FDF Center Dance Group and Calvin Handy and the Jazz Patrol.

Food vendors include El Taco Maniaco, Thai Recipes, Preethi Indian Food and more.

Additionally, the Veterans’ Center will be transformed as more than 25 nations will be represented at tables. Each table will feature information about culture, history and achievements. International speakers will also share additional information.

Arts and craft vendors will be selling everything from scarves to pottery.

“Visitors will be kept busy going from food vendors to arts and crafts vendors and enjoying the live music and performers in both the multipurpose room and children’s events in the theater,” said Elisabeth Sherwin, I-House executive director. “This is a celebration of diversity — and Davis has plenty.”