Organized by the Cordova Community Council, iFest highlights the traditions and stories of Rancho Cordova residents, where more than 90 languages are spoken among a population of more than 80,000. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Music, dance and international flavors will be front and center May 9 as Rancho Cordova hosts the 17th annual iFest International Festival & Wines of the World at Village Green Park Amphitheater.

The event, scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. at 3141 Bridgeway Drive, will bring together cultural performances, global cuisine and interactive activities under the motto “E Pluribus Unum, ‘From many, one,’” reflecting the city’s diverse population.

Organized by the Cordova Community Council, iFest highlights the traditions and stories of Rancho Cordova residents, where more than 90 languages are spoken among a population of more than 80,000.

The event, scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. at 3141 Bridgeway Drive, will bring together cultural performances, global cuisine and interactive activities. Photo by Rick Sloan

“Everyday life in Rancho Cordova is an international festival,” said Cordova Community Council Executive Director Shelly Blanchard. “At iFest, this rich cultural soup is celebrated, giving newcomer groups a chance to share their unique art forms. It is a moment of pride.”

Attendees can expect a lineup of live performances representing cultures from around the world, including Mexican, Middle Eastern, Korean, Indian and Scottish traditions. Dancers and musicians will perform throughout the day in traditional attire.

A new feature this year will introduce Polynesian wrestling, described as an ancient art form highlighting the cultural significance of island warriors. The festival will also include a special appearance by Rancho Cordova resident Sam Fatu, a retired professional wrestler known for his time in national wrestling organizations.

Dancers and musicians will perform throughout the day in traditional attire. Photo by Rick Sloan

In addition to performances, guests can explore a variety of food trucks and pop-up vendors offering international cuisine, along with family-friendly activities such as face painting, henna art and other cultural booths.

For attendees 21 and older, the Wines of the World wine garden will offer tastings from international vineyards. Wine tickets are sold separately at $30 for four tickets, and advance purchase is encouraged.

Blanchard said the event has grown into one of the city’s signature celebrations since its creation by Leadership Rancho Cordova.

“As new groups arrive in Rancho Cordova from foreign places, some of the offerings do shift, but the goal does not,” she said. “We want to celebrate the beauty that is added to our community by those who come here from around the world.”

Attendees can expect a lineup of live performances representing cultures from around the world. Photo by Rick Sloan

Organizers say the festival is about more than entertainment, it is an opportunity to build understanding among residents.

“We believe that the more we know our neighbors, the stronger we will be as a city,” Blanchard said. “We want to shine a light on the beauty of all the cultures that blend together to make Rancho Cordova the special place that it is.”

Blanchard added that organizers hope attendees leave with a broader perspective.

“If you learn a little something about the world we live in, then we have accomplished what we set out to do,” she said.

For admission details and additional information visit cordovacouncil.org/ccc-events/17th-Annual-Rancho-Cordova-iFest.