The World Beat Festival lands in Salem this June, bringing with it a wide range of international music and dance, parades, hands-on crafts, cooking demonstrations, cultural exhibits and dragon boat races.

“This year’s theme explores the diversity of African countries and cultures, and also African influences in world music and world dance,” Marisa Newnam, entertainment chair, said.

The event is slated for June 27-28 at Salem’s Riverfront Park. Hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Throughout the weekend, guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the African theme with various workshops, demonstrations and performances. Top African music and dance groups will perform, including Obo Addy, Darryl Thomas’ Rainbow Dance Theater, and Loveness Wesa and the Bantuz band.

San Francisco’s Sila and the Afrofunk Experience headline the music programming, performing a blend of Kenyan funk and American blues on Saturday. Local Native American flutist Jan Michael Looking Wolf opens the Saturday evening performances at 6 p.m.

The festival’s five World Villages provide space for visitors to explore unique cultures throughout the world from Ethiopian food in the African village to Irish dancing in the European Village. Speakers and historical displays highlight the Nikkei Legacy Center, the Confederated Tribes of Grande Ronde, and the Filipino American Historical Society.

A $3 donation per attendee is suggested. A portion of the proceeds benefits cultural programs for children at AC Gilbert’s Discovery Village and Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. For more information, visit www.WorldBeatFestival.org or call 503-581-2004.