Celtic Culture and Zydego Music Take Center Stage at World Beat 2006

A martial arts performance by black belt John Olivera of Steele's Karate, was one of World Beat 2005's most attended performances Photo By: Bonnie King

(SALEM) - Oregon`s capital city hosts the 9th annual Salem World Beat Festival at Salem Riverfront Park June 24th-25th, 2006.

Recently voted Best Cultural Heritage Event by the Oregon Festivals and Events Association, Organizers say World Beat is an international festival celebrating the cultures, customs, traditions and heritage that make Oregon such a wonderful place to live and visit.

Music, food, dance, arts and crafts of people from throughout the world are showcased in five themed World Villages.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy more than 125 performances, workshops and demonstrations ranging from costumed parades to Gaelic language workshops, dragon boat races* and much more.

A $3 per person donation covers all events and demonstrations. Parking is free in downtown Salem, and free shuttle service is available on Saturday, June 24th, from the State Capitol parking lot at Center and Capitol Streets. For more information on World Beat, visit www.WorldBeatFestival.org or call (503) 581-2004.