Gwinnett Daily Post

St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Norcross is known for its diverse population of parishioners, including Africans, Asians, Europeans and Hispanics. Drawing on the rich cultural mix of its congregation, the church is holding its annual International Festival this Saturday.

The festival is open to the community and will showcase cuisine, music, dance and fashion from around the globe. Kids can win prizes while they enjoy games and activities.

"We're a very diverse community. This festival brings all the different groups together," said Cheryl Stewart, a spokesperson for St. Patrick's. "People really enjoy this, because they get to sample things from all the groups they live among."

Between parish participants and those from the community, more than 1,000 people typically attend the festival to enjoy ethnic foods and understand more about various cultures. Music groups from different countries will perform, and the fashion show is historically a popular feature.

SideBar: If you go

What: St. Patrick's Catholic Church International Festival

When: Saturday, 2 to 10 p.m.,

Where: 2140 Beaver Ruin Road, Norcross

Admission: $5, kids 12 and under are free

Game tickets: $2 each

More info: Call 770-448-2028 or visit www.stpatricks-norcross.org