The City of Chandler’s Connection & Impact Division is organizing the 31st annual Multicultural Festival, which will take place on Saturday, January 17, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: Stage Plaza in Downtown Chandler.
The event aims to highlight the city’s diverse heritage through live performances, food offerings, and activities for all ages. The festival will feature entertainment on the Unity Stage, international cuisine available for purchase, an international shopping market with handmade goods from around the world, and opportunities to connect with local nonprofits and educational groups.
Returning for its second year is the custom cruiser car show, where attendees can vote for their favorite vehicle in the People’s Choice Award category. Basketball fans will have an opportunity to take photos with the NCAA Women’s Final Four trophy as part of a tour sponsored by SRP, along with interactive basketball-themed activities.
Children can participate in activities at the Kids Zone, including face painting (available from noon to 5 p.m.), bounce houses, charm collecting, and the Arizona Cardinals Experience. The Kids Zone will be open throughout festival hours.
The Unity Stage schedule includes performances by The 8 Foundation at 11 a.m., Antara at 11:45 a.m., Celtic Steps Irish Dance at 12:10 p.m., The Prancing Panthers Majorettes at 12:25 p.m., Kenary Dance at 12:30 p.m., Native American reggae artist “Casper & The 602 Band” at 1:05 p.m., Calumet at 2:35 p.m., Jessica Maeve at 3:50 p.m., Creative Expression Contest Winners at 4:40 p.m., and Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ at 5 p.m. Mayor Kevin Hartke will provide a welcome address at noon.
“This year’s Multicultural Festival is sponsored by SRP, Intel and Arizona Cardinals. Event admission is free, along with free parking in multiple parking garages located in the downtown area.”
Chandler has a history of hosting community events that draw visitors and strengthen its role as a regional hub according to its official history page. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park serves as a central gathering place surrounded by shops and historic sites as noted on city records. These efforts are consistent with Chandler’s mission to deliver public services that foster community engagement and quality of life as outlined on its mission page.
More information about participating vendors and organizations can be found on the Multicultural Festival website.
