Ethnic arts festival on lakefront

Set sail for a land cruise around the world as Evanston's lakefront turns into a global village for the 23rd annual Ethnic Arts Festival, July 19-20. For one weekend only, sample the song, dance, cuisine and arts and crafts of countries near and far without needing a passport or luggage.

This family festival is open noon to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, in Dawes Park, Sheridan Road at Church St., Evanston. Admission is free, and complimentary shuttle bus service is provided from the Northwestern University parking garage, three blocks north of the festival.

The Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival kicks off at noon Saturday, July 19, with a colorful Parade of Nations ceremony featuring the flags of more than 100 nations.

Among the other festival highlights are a juried arts and crafts sale, artist demonstrations, interactive workshops for children, ethnic foods and live entertainment on two stages. This year's performers include the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band, Linda Graham, Chevere de Chicago, the Polkaholics, and S.O.U.L. Creations. For a complete entertainment schedule go to www.cityofevanston.org/arts.