The community is invited to experience the many cultures present in the Inland Northwest without leaving Coeur d’Alene.

The 10th annual Community Multicultural Faire will be Saturday, April 6 at Lakes Magnet Middle School. For a decade, the event has fostered the celebration and sharing of different cultures through music, food, games and art.

“It’s to get people together and learn about the different resources around our community,” said Kristin Odenthal, a math teacher at Lakes Magnet Middle School who has organized the event for the last six years. “It keeps getting bigger every year.”

Many countries will be represented, including Japan, which is a new addition to the event. Attendees will have the opportunity to try mochi, a type of Japanese rice cake.

Games, face painting and educational resources will be available, along with authentic food from multiple cultures. Some food is free to sample, while other food is for sale.

Local musicians will perform, including handpan-player Ethereal in E, Spanish folk singer Gary Edwards, Coeur d’Alene Youth Marimba, Lakes Show Choir and more.

“One of my favorites is the marimbas,” Odenthal said. “They fill the gym with such great energy. Ethereal in E is mesmerizing.”

A henna artist will be on-site. Virtual Reality CDA will bring a portable booth to the event, where attendees can travel to other countries using virtual reality technology.

Odenthal said the goal of the Community Multicultural Faire is to help people come together to celebrate their differences while recognizing their similarities. She said the event is also a great opportunity to learn about the resources available within the community and to experience the local music scene.

“I’m really excited,” Odenthal said. “I’m proud to keep it going for the community.”

The 10th Annual Community Multicultural Faire is Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakes Magnet Middle School in Coeur d’Alene. Admission is free.