RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Rancho Cordova’s vibrant iFest international festival made a colorful return Saturday with a butterfly release, camel rides and cultural performances from around the globe, bouncing back with thousands of happy attendees after a two-year pandemic hiatus.

Sponsored by the Cordova Community Council, and packing Village Green Park, iFest is intended to showcase and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Rancho Cordova by encouraging cultural groups to display their heritage.

Stage performances featured native dance and music from more than a dozen countries, including China, Korea, Italy, Croatia, Ireland, India, Lebanon, Egypt and Mexico.  The ever-changing entertainment was hosted by Andy Gee, who guided the audience on a musical world tour.

A special tribute honored the inspirational people of war-torn Ukraine, which was followed by a performance by Rancho Cordova Ukrainian Bandura musicians, including one who had moved to Rancho Cordova from Ukraine just three weeks ago.

Elsewhere, the Koreana Plaza International Market sponsored tastes from around the globe at “Wines of the World,” while children pounded away at piñatas, visitors were adorned with Henna art, scaled a climbing wall and smiled for caricature artists.

“No other event showcases the warmth and welcoming hearts of Rancho Cordova than does iFest,” said Shelly Blanchard, executive director of the Cordova Community Council.  “It’s a day to embrace not only our differences, but what we have in common.  It’s fun, and it’s beautiful, and always a great day for Rancho Cordova.”

Rancho Cordova iFest is supported by numerous sponsors including Assemblyman Ken Cooley, Belka Hagan Families, California American Water, City of Rancho Cordova, Councilman David Sander, Cordova Recreation and Park District, Folsom Cordova Unified School District, Golden State Water, Heritage Community Credit Union, KP International Market, Michael Baker International, RC Rotarians in Action, Rancho Cordova Family Tae Kwon Do, Rancho Cordova Food Locker, Republic Services, RC Healthcare River City Christian, Sacramento County, Fiber City, Smile Kingdom, SMUD, Sunrise Orthodontics and Visit Rancho Cordova.