Updated: Celebrate diversity at annual Parade of Nations Saturday, Sept. 22

Argentina and Afghanistan flag bearers lead the 2011 Parade of Nations across the Portage lift Bridge from Hancock to Houghton. This year's parade begins at 11 a.m. this Saturday, Sept. 22, on Quincy Street in Hancock. (2011 file photos by Keweenaw Now)

HOUGHTON -- Floats and marching groups bearing flags of many nations will hit the streets of Hancock and Houghton at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, for the annual Parade of Nations. UPDATE: While all are hoping for good weather, the parade will happen rain or shine or snow! Participants should line up in Hancock at 10 a.m.

Chinese students, one of the largest groups of international students at Michigan Tech, are well represented in the 2011 Parade of Nations.

After the parade, crowds will gather at the Dee Stadium for a multicultural festival starting at noon, featuring international foods at 26 booths.

Visitors enjoy a large selection of international cuisine in Dee Stadium after the parade.

The festival includes a gala show featuring the Michigan Technological University Dance Team and the Michigan Tech Hip Hop Club, the Copper Country Cloggers, the Kivajat Dancers, songs by the Hassle Family, and a Chinese dance by Summer Gu. The Medievalist Club will also perform, as will the International Student Association.  Admission is free.

The Copper Country Cloggers entertain at the 2011 Parade of Nations show. They will perform again this year in Dee Stadium -- along with several other dance and musical groups.

The festival this Saturday is from noon to 4 p.m. at the Dee Stadium. Bring your appetite! Try tasty international food from dozens of food booths offering delicious ethnic specialties, desserts and more. The entertainment is endless. Enjoy bands, singing, dances, and, for the children, free pony rides, face painting and supervised arts and crafts.

More photos from the 2011 Parade of Nations ...

From Pakistan to Poland, flags and traditional dress represent many countries as the 2011 Parade of Nations heads across the Portage Lift Bridge from Hancock to Houghton.

Japanese students from Finlandia University enjoy some international cuisine during the 2011 Parade of Nations festival in Dee Stadium.

Anna Leppanen, left, and Meghan Pachmayer offer Finnish treats for sale during the 2011 Parade of Nations festival.

Indian students perform one of their popular dance routines.

Copper Country Suzuki musicians perform during the 2011 Parade of Nations festival.

Don't miss this great Copper Country celebration of diversity and fun for the whole family!