XRootsFest, hosted by SOMa Community Coalition on Race

The South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race is proud to present the 5th annual XRootsFest (CROSS-roots-Fest) at Maplewood’s Memorial Park on June 2, from 12 pm to 6 pm, a free annual multicultural heritage festival that is one the most diverse and interactive events in the area. Returning for its fifth season, XRootsFest will be a day filled with musicians, dancers, food vendors, activities and merchants rooted in the cultures of four continents that will weave together a fabulous afternoon of entertainment for you, your family and friends. Beatrice Carter, radio and TV personality, will return to MC the event.

Families with kids of all ages will enjoy the popular “Big Edu-tainment Tent,” featuring hands-on activities like painting with Brush with Greatness, storytelling and cultural exchanges with ambassadors to learn about practices from around the world to keep attendees entertained all day long. The festival brings together a variety of talented performers who showcase the many cultures in our community, Essex County and throughout New Jersey. Here’s a sample of the dynamic lineup of multicultural performances:

NYC-based Taiko drumming/NY style street dancing group Cobu

Drums from Heaven drum circle

Native American performance group Red Storm Drum and Dance Troupe

Native American and African ritual storytelling by Ahmondylla Best

Calypso, Reggae African and Latin performances by Exodus Supreme

For more information on XRootsFest, visit www.twotowns.org/Xrootsfest or call 973-761-6116.