by Jonathan Haller

Donham Plaza will become the center of Peruvian culture September 30- October 2, 2011. Middfest International is renowned for taking a unique, in-depth look at another country’s culture and presenting it in a fun, festive environment.

This year’s focus on Peru will be no exception! From fascinating exhibits that cover Literature and Language, Science, History, Art and Culture to exciting live performances by artists from Peru and the US to engaging youth activities, there will be lots to experience and enjoy! Here is a schedule of the events for Midfest Week 2011:

• September 26-30, Performers/Scholars Programs in Schools & Universities
• September 29 – Peruvian Business Group Speaks to NKITA Board - Noon
• September 30, Ambassador’s Luncheon - Noon
• September 30-October 2, Middfest International Weekend
  Donham Plaza, Middletown, Ohio
• October 1, Kids Super Saturday Programs

Midfest is looking for volunteers to engage, develop skillsa and share expertise. Call 513-425-7707 to volunteer. Midfest needs . . .

• Interns - High School/University • University and K-12 Partners
• Grant & Article Writers, Fundraisers, Project Managers
• Funding and Project Partners and Sponsors, Corporate and Non-Profits
• Business Event Sponsors - • Businesses Interested in Trade with Peru - • Entrepreneurs
• People with Connections to, Experience or Expertise in Peru
 

About Peru

Peru is a developing country with an expanding tourism sector. A wide variety of tourist facilities and services is available, with quality varying according to price and location. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Peru for additional information.

Peruvian territory was home to the Norte Chico civilization, one of the oldest in the world, and to the Inca Empire, the largest state in Pre-Columbian America. The Spanish Empire conquered the region in the 16th century and established a Viceroyalty, which included most of its South American colonies. After achieving independence in 1821, Peru has undergone periods of political unrest and fiscal crisis as well as periods of stability and economic upswing.

Peru is a representative democratic republic divided into 25 regions. Its geography varies from the arid plains of the Pacific coast to the peaks of the Andes mountains and the tropical forests of the Amazon Basin. It is a developing country with a high Human Development Index score and a poverty level around 31%. Its main economic activities include agriculture, fishing, mining, and manufacturing of products such as textiles.

The Peruvian population is the 5th largest in Latin America. Estimated at 29.5 million, is multiethnic, including Amerindians, Europeans, Africans, and Asians. The main spoken language is Spanish, although a significant number of Peruvians speak Quechua or other native languages. This mixture of cultural traditions has resulted in a wide diversity of expressions in fields such as art, cuisine, literature, and music.

Sources: Midfest, US Department of State, City of Middletown Manager's Report, Wikipedia