Featured 2025 performers
ARCINDA (The Art and Culture of Indonesia)
ARCINDA brings together Indonesian artists, dancers, musicians and others from across the metro area. Executive Director Anie Pelletier earned an MBA at the University of Denver in 1995 and received a scholarship from Indonesia. Dance is her hobby since childhood and became her talent. ARCINDA has performed before at Global Fest.
Previously featured on CBS4
Colorado Ethiopian Community
Returning to Global Fest for another year, this group stands out due to their authentic representation of Ethiopian culture, blending traditional music, dance, and attire to create an immersive and captivating performance. They aim to share not just entertainment but also a piece of Ethiopian heritage, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Tariku Shele, an accomplished dancer who immigrated from Ethiopia, has been performing since childhood. His journey of preserving and promoting Ethiopian dance in the diaspora is inspiring and adds depth to our performance. With nearly 5,000 identified residents, Ethiopians make up the largest immigrant group in Aurora behind Mexico.
Latino Arts & Cultural Institute
Performing for the sixth time at Global Fest, Latino Arts & Cultural Institute is dedicated to promoting and preserving Latino arts and culture in the community. Through various programs and initiatives, they strive to showcase the richness and diversity of Latino heritage while providing educational opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging for all. The organization is led by LGBTQ+, women and immigrants. The group’s leaders (Daniela, Vivian and Julio) have stories of coming to this country, working hard to get access to higher education, promoting cultural heritage and supporting members of our community in achieving their goals.
Selena Contest and Tribute to Selena by Mayra Alejandra & Band
There will also be a special tribute to the legacy of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Perez. Aurora resident Mayra Alejandra and her band will be performing the music of Selena. Their concert will follow an all-ages Selena look-alike contest. The competition, sponsored by Amigos de Mexico, will include multiple age categories and prizes for top finishers.
USTKDcenter (Taekwondo)
This will be USTKDcenter's second time performing at Global Fest. The first was in 2019.
Ki Soo Jung, the Owner and Grandmaster, came to the United States in 1986 and opened his first dojang (taekwondo school) in Aurora. He was a four-time U.S. National Team Coach and was a previous sparring champion in Korea. He came to the United States with his passion and knowledge of Taekwondo to spread it to hundreds of students throughout his many years of teaching the martial art. The performance team has members who made it to the US Team Trials and even made the US National Team! Currently, Grandmaster Jung is also the Korean Association President and former Colorado State Taekwondo Association President.
Activities at Global Fest 2025
"World of Words: Local Authors"
Enjoy a World of Words: Local Authors at Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway, during Global Fest. Meet and support local authors as they showcase their work. There will also be an opportunity to listen in on a short reading. Learn more at AuroraLibrary.org.
