Holiday Folk Fair International 2008 brings the world to Milwaukee

HOLIDAY FOLK FAIR INTERNATIONAL celebrates its 65th anniversary Nov. 21-23, once again providing the opportunity to travel around the globe without a bit of jet lag or even a plane ticket.

Held in the Wisconsin Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park, 8200 W. Greenfield Ave., the three-day celebration features tantalizing foods, irresistible music, intriguing dance performances and a vast array of exhibits and merchandise.

Produced by the International Institute of Wisconsin, the Milwaukee-based nonprofit social service organization dedicated to racial, cultural and ethnic understanding, the award-winning event is one of the largest festivals of its kind, drawing visitors from throughout the Midwest.

This year's theme is "Celebrate the Language of Culture." It's estimated that by 2100, more than half of the 7,000 languages spoken on Earth-many of them never recorded-will likely disappear, taking with them a wealth of knowledge about history, culture, the natural environment and how the human brain works. This year, Folk Fair recognizes the impact of those languages.

Language defines a culture, through both the people who speak it and what it allows speakers to say, explains Al Durtka, president of the International Institute. Words that describe a particular cultural practice or idea rarely translate precisely into another language.

At every Folk Fair, the way various cultures prepare their food is a focus for visitors. Numerous food booths offer appetizers, main dishes, sandwiches and desserts, all authentically prepared and priced to encourage sampling. At the Coffee House, coffee or tea, sweet treats and music are the specialties.

The International Bazaar is the perfect place for holiday shopping. Booths decorated to represent the featured country offer items that showcase artistic traditions and handicrafts. Frequently holiday items are featured, giving visitors a perfect chance to buy something authentic for seasonal gift giving.

On Heritage Lane, visitors can interact with ethnic volunteers to learn about the customs and traditions of many different cultures. "Passports" are available for children, who thrill at having them stamped at the many intricately decorated booths. At the outdoor Revolutionary War Encampment, fair-goers also can ask questions of re-enactors from both sides of the conflict.

Regularly scheduled shows at the All Nations Theater feature groups performing traditional music and dance with flair, drama and color. At the Folk Fair's International Stage, attention focuses on dance performances by young people. The Music Pavilion features an array of musical groups.

On display for the first time is "Between Homes," an exhibition of photographs from the Bangkok Refugee Center. The center provides education, medical and mental health services, vocational training and legal assistance to many of the refugees who come to Thailand. Another display of dramatic photos of the polar landscape comes from the National Science Foundation in celebration of the International Polar Year. And, for a contemplative experience, visit the fair's display of Bonsai.

On Saturday at 10:30 a.m., the Folk Fair holds its traditional naturalization ceremony of hundreds of individuals. Other regular Folk Fair events include the Education Day/Cultural Awareness Program held on Friday for fourth- through eighth-grade students from the Greater Milwaukee area.

On Sunday, the Around the World 5k Run/Walk starts at 9 a.m. For registration information, phone 414-225-6225 or register online at www.active.com. Also on Sunday, a religious service will be held at 10:30 a.m.

Folk Fair hours are 2-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Children five and younger are admitted at no charge and tickets for children 6-12 and seniors 62 and older are $8 at the gate. There is no admission charge for military personnel with military ID. A raffle is included in the ticket price, and winners need not be present at Sunday's 6:30 p.m. drawing.

Advance tickets, group tickets and family four-packs for $28 may be purchased by calling 1-800-FAIR-INTL or by visiting www.folkfair.org. Advance tickets also are available at Park Banks, Usinger's Famous Sausage at 1030 N. Old World 3rd St. and more than 50 Pick 'N Save supermarkets in the metro area.

For more information, visit www.folkfair.org or call the International Institute of Wisconsin at 414-225-6220.