In just a few days, Newport News will be full of sights and sounds from around the globe during the World Arts Celebration. This free event will give guests of all ages a glimpse of art around the world through both visual and interactive dance displays.

Exhibits from seventeen countries will be on display during the celebration. Learn about the countries of Central America with Nica Art Pottery of Nicaragua and Cesar Straw Art of Mexico. Straw Mosaic Painting is created when pieces of straw are washed and dried in the sun, then stained with different colors and finally designed into an artistic piece. Discover areas of Africa with Zambia’s Banana Leaf Art Project or Ghana’s- Bolga handwoven baskets that are made from hollow stalks of dried elephant grass.

Enjoy Dance and Drums performance from the African Atumpan Edutainment and a Dragon and Lion dance from the Chinese group, Jow Ga Kung Association. Hula dance with Ohana Arts and enjoy an Irish Dance Show. There will also be a performance from the Panamanian Folkloric Group of Hampton Roads.

The World Arts Celebration is taking place Saturday, May 21st from 4 PM to 9 PM in City Center. Admission and parking are free. Updates and announcements will be posted on Facebook and Twitter @nnfestivals throughout the event.