In contrast to the usual rustic shades of brown at the Old Deseret Village in This Is The Place Heritage Park, bright and colorful costumes, food, music and people were the main attraction on Saturday during the annual Days of '47 Culture Fest.
Enduring temperatures over 100 degrees, performers from 13 cultures shared traditional dances, music and entertainment, with the program "Touch of Polynesia " heading the list.
In its third year, the multicultural event celebrates pioneers from many nations in promoting awareness and diversity in Utah. It was a scene of neighborly acceptance and welcome as 19th century-dressed pioneers interacted with the people of diverse ethnic backgrounds, under this year's Days of '47 theme "Utah! For the Pioneer in All of Us."
Judy Goad, co-chairperson of the festival, said it was a perfect opportunity to be exposed to many cultures in one day, from food and music to clothing and dance. She said mixing ethnic cultures with the culture and history of the village made a "perfect marriage" at the celebration.
The festival attracted between 2,000 to 3,000 people and even pulled in a few out-of-state visitors.
"I think it's a lovely idea (the festival)," said Linda Elkin, a visitor from San Francisco. "All cultures have some sort of pioneer heritage to one degree or another."
West Valley residents Steve and Avelina Staker feel that it is important to be exposed to different cultures. Avelina, from Venezuela, brought their son Sam, 3, to give him a taste of some of her own culture.
"We like to see all of the different kinds of people here as well as let him see his own," said Avelina. "He loved the dancing."
E-mail: terickson@desnews.com