Come to Rolla’s first Celebration of Nations event this Saturday, Oct. 9, for a fun-filled day with sights, sounds and aromas that celebrate the cultural diversity of the area.

A Parade of Nations will kick off the day beginning at 11 a.m. at the Havener Center, located on the campus of Missouri University of Science and Technology. The parade route will run from campus, through downtown Rolla’s Pine Street and end up at the Rolla band shell at 9th and Oak streets. The parade will include representatives from 81 countries; camels; an Indian Palki, a traditional transport for brides on their wedding day, accompanied by a groom on horseback; Chinese dragon and lion dancers; the Missouri S&T Band and an African musical group.

After the parade, there will be a festival featuring local and international arts, crafts and food. Get a head start on your holiday shopping with unique items from around the world, or try the funnel cakes, baklava, and Indian and Thai cuisine. There will be activities for the whole family, including face painting, an inflatable bounce house and henna tattoos.

Students can bring their Celebration of Nations passports they received from school or pick one up from the event booth at the festival. Visit all the booths and tables to get the passport stamped by representatives of all the foreign countries.

The highlight of the afternoon will be the International Idol talent competition from 1-3 p.m. Cheer on your favorite singers, dancers, musicians and other local talent.

For more information go online, or contact Stephane Menand at 573-341-6237 or menands@mst.edu. You can also become a fan of Celebration of Nations on Facebook.