The Indigenous Peoples of the World

Opening preview is Sunday, September 25th at 2:30pm.  This special date is designated for volunteers and sponsors to get a close look at the results of their work and preparations.

New and annual sponsors and supporters include The Ohio Lottery; Miller Brewing; Time Warner Cable; Target Stores, Middletown; Miami University, Middletown Campus; The Fine Arts Fund; Henger's Ponds, Roger Connor and more.

Through help from the Ohio Lottery, as the education and transportation sponsor, guest from around the globe will be visiting the area schools and sharing a new perspective of the six countries featured this year through their indigenous peoples. Countries and indigenous peoples include: Sámi from Norway; Mapuche & Aymara, from Chile; Bushmen & Khoi, South Africa; Maori, New Zealand; Inuit, Canada, and the Ainu from Japan. 

The Middletown Target Store is continuing their generous participation as sponsor of Super Saturday.  The event is tailor made for groups of children eager to participate and learn about new traditions and culture.  This year Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can earn their international badges.  All of our indigenous groups will be participating in the native drum program with the Super Saturday Kids.  Kids will also complete craft projects chosen especially for Super Saturday. The fun starts at 9am. Call the Middfest office for registration.

A once in a lifetime display of indigenous plants and flowers from seven countries will be a special feature this year.  In the center of the massive exhibit a waterfall being constructed by Henger's Ponds will be 20 feet tall and 16 feet across.  This magnificent piece will have 4 different versions of natural waterfalls from around the world.  Other award winning participants include, Warren Klink of Urban Thickets Landscape who has earned honors for his use of native plants from the Cincinnati Flower Show and the Royal Horticulture Show in London and Earthscapes, Inc. One lucky raffle winner will be awarded a water feature for their own backyard valued at $4500.00.

In celebration of 25 years, Middfest International is hosting a garden party and gala on Thursday, the 29th.  Roger Conner of Flowers by Roger and Linda Fiora have co-chaired in the planning of this extraordinary night.  Guests will be treated to entertainment by the world renowned artist, Steven Marq.  Marq is one of only 5 pianists that Steinway sponsors in touring the world.  A menu featuring mouth-watering fare from Two Women in a Kitchen will be plentiful, as will beverages and desserts.  Auction items will be ready to bid on and raffle tickets can be purchased for the magnificent water feature.  Single gala tickets are $35 and $65 for two.  Reservations are limited due to space, so make your arrangements early.  Call the Middfest International office at 513-425-7707.

Continuing in the 25 year tradition, once again Middfest International is bringing the world to the doorstep of Middletown.  Make your plans to enjoy the international varieties of food, entertainment, exhibits and more.  Gates open at 5pm on Friday, September 30; Saturday, October 1 from 10am till 10pm and Sunday, October 2 from Noon until 8pm.  No charge for children under 12, all others; $5 for a souvenir button that gets you in all three days.