Idaho International Summerfest kicks off in Rexburg - East Idaho News
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Idaho International Summerfest kicks off in Rexburg

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REXBURG — The annual Idaho International Summerfest is back in the Upper Valley.

This year, dance and musical performers from Russia, India, Polynesia, Puerto Rico, Canada and the United States will perform at events throughout the week.

Eastern Idahoans will get to meet the teams for the first time Saturday, July 9, during the festival’s opening ceremonies between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. in Porter Park.

“The Idaho International Summerfest event has been around for over 30 years, and I think some folks take it for granted and by doing so miss a unique event,” Rexburg Area Chamber of Commerce President Ted Austin said. “It is probably the most culturally interesting event in all of Idaho.”

Summerfest’s first large event is the Street Festival — a parade and dance — which will take place on Main Street starting at 5 p.m. Monday.

Summerfest 2015
Team Mongolia during the Street Parade at Summerfest 2015 | Photo by Matt Eichner, EastIdahoNews.com

The street festival will include booths sponsored by local businesses. These booths may include crafts, games, arts, clothing, music, entertainment and food.

The parade, which features all the dance teams, will begin at 6:30 p.m. The street dance will start at 9 p.m. A variety of the performers will also be present during the street dance, according to a news release.

“Performers come from all corners of the globe, which provides an opportunity for attendees to see the diversity of cultures and actually meet many of the performers in person,” Austin said.

All three events are free and will end at 11 p.m.

Other events this week include youth cultural workshops at several local high schools and gala performances.

“Our free youth culture events are open to kids from 6 to 16 and allows them to interact with the performers, learn dances, and most importantly gain a better understanding of cultures from around the world,” Austin said. “What a great way for anyone to spend a couple of hours this summer.”

For a complete schedule or information about the Idaho International Summerfest visit www.idahosummerfest.com.

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