Get ready to travel the globe—no passports or planes needed!
The 2024 Perry International Festival is back for its fourth year, and it’s been honored as one of the Top 20 Signature Events in the Southeast. This free, all-day celebration is packed with performances, activities, and food from around the world.
Whether you’re a festival regular or planning your first visit, here are 5 reasons you won’t want to miss the 2024 Perry International Festival...
1. Dive into Diverse Cultures
The festival features two immersive exhibits you must see.
First up, experience the rich heritage of southeastern Native American tribes with the Deep Forest Historical Native Exhibit. See tools, weaponry, housing, and clothing that tell the story of these tribes. Jim Sawgrass, a Muscogee (Mvskoke) native, brings their history to life, having showcased his knowledge at national parks, Disney World, Universal Studios, and on the History, Travel, and Discovery TV networks. And the best part? This incredible exhibit is entirely free at the festival.
Next, step into the colorful traditions of Mexico with the Altar del Día de los Muertos. This Day of the Dead display offers a deep, emotional insight into how Mexican communities honor those closest to them. Many people make altars or ofrendas (offerings) in their homes to honor their loved ones who have died. Every detail represents something significant and special in meaning and is a testament to the enduring spirit of remembrance.
2. Join Epic Block Parties
The Festival includes two terrific block parties.
Bloktoberfest: Transforming the 900 block of Carroll Street into a traditional biergarten with beer, brats, pretzels, and a live polka band in the afternoon. It’s a nod to the famous Oktoberfest tradition that started in Munich back in 1810 when the future King Ludwig invited the entire city to celebrate his marriage. The party was such a hit that it became an annual tradition—and we’re bringing that same spirit to Perry.
Fiesta Callejera: This Latin street party lights up one block of Jernigan Street with music, dancing, and good times. Don’t miss the massive skeletons roaming the street and mariachi musicians singing stories of love, heartache, and Mexican heritage.
3. Enjoy Live Performances
Grab a seat and take in the many live performances from around the world. Watch the Tamborito, a romantic couple’s dance that is the national song and dance of Panama. Listen to the steel drums of Calypso, Soca, and Reggae music. The exciting Two Shields Native American Dance performers, who have participated in two Winter Olympic opening ceremonies and the World Expo in Dubai, will be performing. And that’s just the beginning—festival-goers can enjoy flamenco, belly dancing, and other performances representing Mexico, Bulgaria, Africa, India, China, Polynesia, and the Caribbean.
4. Get Hands-On with Cultural Activities
Many of the booths will include activities to engage and educate attendees, so take your time and get hands-on at the festival. You may even get a chance to join in with the dancers and musicians. Stop by the Cultural Closet to try your hand at musical instruments from around the world. Feast on German, Latin, Polynesian and other cuisine offered at this year’s festival. Don’t forget to snap your pics at the festival’s Travel The World displays along Carroll Street.
5. Be Part of a Festival Tradition
Each year, the Perry International Festival kicks off with the spirited Chinese Lion Dance, a traditional ritual meant to bring good luck and drive away negative spirits. There’s no better way to start a Saturday than with this burst of positivity and happiness.
As the sun sets, the festival closes each year with the spirit of the South Pacific through the traditional music and dance of Hawai’i, Tahiti, Måori, Tonga, and Fiji. The mesmerizing Samoan Fire Knife dance—a display of athletic skill, strength, and fire is reserved for the spectacular finale to the festival.
The festival committee works very hard to find authentic cultural representations that will make the event both educational and entertaining. “My favorite part of the festival is seeing people from other countries feel welcomed and comfortable in this environment, and proud of their culture being represented,” says Tabitha Clark, the City of Perry Communications Director, and one of the festival organizers.
This reflects what the Perry International Festival is really about, the power of human connection and our shared humanity. Perry is the city where Georgia—and now the world—can come together, not just in celebration, but in understanding and respect.
The Perry International Festival takes place Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 10 AM through 8 PM in historic downtown Perry. The event is FREE and everyone is welcome.