McAllen Public Library will host its Fifth Annual World Languages Festival, an IFEA award-winning celebration of global cultures through language, music, and the arts. The festival will take place on Sat., March 8, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Main Library, located at 4001 N. 23rd St., McAllen. Admission is free and open to all.
This year’s featured guest performer, Elizabeth Kahura, will present Sound of Africa, an interactive drumming and dance performance that highlights the similarities and differences between cultures. Audiences will participate in drum circles, rhythm exercises, and dance demonstrations and learn about the history of authentic African musical instruments.
Additional performances will bring a range of cultural traditions to the stage, including Bharatanatyam dance by Akshaya Dance Academy, a classical Indian art form rooted in storytelling; traditional Irish dance by McAllen Irish Arts, showcasing rhythmic footwork; and Samulnori percussion ensemble by the UTRGV Department of Writing & Language Studies, blending Korean drumming with storytelling.
Festivalgoers will enjoy interactive art activities, cultural exhibits, raffles, and a live food demonstration with international recipes to recreate at home.
“The festival serves as a vibrant celebration of the diversity within our community, offering a unique opportunity to explore and learn about a variety of cultural traditions,” said McAllen City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “The World Language Festival fosters understanding and appreciation of different cultures, enriching McAllen by showcasing our celebration of a multitude of cultures and bringing people together from all over the globe.”
This annual event highlights the World Languages Collection, featuring materials in Korean, Tagalog, Hindi, English, Spanish, and more, offering valuable resources for a multilingual community. For a full schedule of events, visit https:/mcallenlibrary.net/events/wlf or contact the Reference Department at 956-681-3061.
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