The Daytona Beach International Festival took place on Manatee Island on Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17.Â
Hosted by Ormond Beach nonprofit Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc., the event was free and open to the public. Attendees experienced live music performances from a variety of artists, including Mexican and Hindu musicians, highlighting the area's cultural diversity. The festival also features activities for children, such as water slides and face painting, as well as a wide selection of food vendors representing cuisines from around the world.
A total of 27 nations were represented. This was the second year the festival was held. The inaugural year was held in Ormond Beach.
Local author Lucky Boren, of Ormond Beach, was also present at the festival. A senior at Seabreeze High School, Boren showcased her children’s book, “Toby Saves the Night” and offered a face-painting activity to help readers connect with her story.Â
“Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to spark curiosity and confidence in young readers,†said William Sanchez, managing director of Cultural Awareness Fund, Inc, in a press release. “Lucky's work — especially at such a young age — reflects the creativity and initiative we aim to nurture through our educational and cultural programming.â€
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