Sacramento is nationally recognized as one of the most racially diverse and racially integrated cities in America.  That diversity brings many cultures together, and this weekend's Sacramento World Music and Dance Festival is a great showcase of the myriad cultures we have.

“Families and individuals will enjoy traveling the world within Old Sacramento to experience different world cultures through various interactive and educational opportunities," according to show organizers. "The family-friendly extravaganza will feature six performance areas with more than 40 performances, a Global Village featuring cooking demonstrations and unique insights into various cultures, children’s entertainment in the Eagle Theater and many other activities.”

The festival kicks off on Saturday evening with a spotlight on Native American heritage. Headlining the celebration will be Pascua Yoqui tribe member and Native American dancer, singer, teacher, playwright and filmmaker Edward Madril. Madril, who has performed throughout the Western United States over the past 20 years, performs on Old Sacramento’s Waterfront Stage at 6 p.m. Admission is FREE.

The festival continues on Sunday, as Old Sacramento is transformed into a bustling multicultural center complete with live performances of music and dance, hands-on activities for the kiddos, cooking and dancing demonstrations, and much more. Admission is FREE.

For a complete schedule of performance, click here.