Dear Principals and Teachers:

The Pittsburgh Folk Festival, Inc., is a non-profit organization whose mission statement is to promote and preserve "Unity in Diversity." To accomplish that, each year we present an annual Folk Festival that highlights the cultural diversity of the Greater Pittsburgh and Tri-State area. The Pittsburgh Folk Festival has grown from seven nationalities in 1956 to over 25 nationalities. We will be celebrating our 52nd annual festival at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, May 16-18, 2008.

On the first day of the annual festival, (Friday, May 16, 2008), we offer the "Multicultural Educational Program - Around the World in One Day", to elementary and middle schools (grades 2-9). For a fee, this Multicultural Education Program provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about a variety of cultures in a single day trip. The purpose of this presentation is to promote a better understanding of various peoples by learning about their history, culture and customs.

This program meets curriculum guidelines for multicultural education by offering student participation in folk crafts; performances of traditional ethnic dances, songs and music; and cultural exhibits where students can learn about a people's history, geography and customs. In addition, an international food court and shopping bazaar will be available for students to buy lunch and shop.

If you are interested in having your class take advantage of the opportunity to go "Around the World in One Day", please complete the attached form with payment and return via US Mail or register and remit payment on our website, www.pghfolkfest.org by March 31, 2008.

If you require additional information about our organization or the Multicultural Education Program, feel free to contact me by email education@pghfolkfest.org or by calling our office at 412-278-1267.

I hope your school will be able to attend this year's program and learn about the area's rich and diverse cultural heritages.

Sincerely,
 
Michelle Marie Kotsagrelos
Board of Directors
Chair, Educational Committee
Pittsburgh Folk Festival, Inc.