This year's festival theme, A Cultural Infusion, celebrates the many cultures represented in the City of Santa Monica through music, dance and culinary arts. The festival will also highlight information on city, business, and non-profit agencies that strengthen the community with supportive resources.

Free entertainment will be featured throughout the day including live dance music by the well-known 'gotta dance band', The Bonedaddys (world-beat, blues, zydeco); and widely acclaimed Very Be Careful (Columbian vallenato and cumbia); a multi-media theatrical presentation by actor Gerald C. Rivers and MOA dance, featuring jazz saxophonist Cal Bennett, will stir our memories and imagination on the theme of 'unity' as expressed by Rev. Dr, Martin Luther King, Jr.. Teen poet and hip hop artist, Miles McAliley will also rock the stage.

The annual 'Unity Awards' will be given to an outstanding individual, community organization and faith based group for making a difference in the quality of life in Santa Monica through activities that promote diversity in cultural education and cultural awareness.

Free bike valet services will be provided and gourmet food trucks will be on hand to delight the palate.

For the latest entertainment and event updates, visit Virginia Avenue Park's website at www.vapark.smgov.net or call (310) 458-8688.  Virginia Avenue Park is located at 2200 Virginia Avenue. The park is wheelchair accessible and welcomes persons of all abilities.

CONTACT:    Betty Macias at 310-458-8688, City of Santa Monica
                      Marcia Fierro at 310-434-4290, Santa Monica College