Web Exclusive: Three more Heartland festivals

1.) Romanian Heritage Festival
Niles, Ill.

When: June

Description: Over 200,000 people of Romanian heritage live in the Chicago metropolitan area and its proximity. This festival celebrates their heritage with traditional Romanian music, food and marketplace. Their first event in 2010 brought over 4,000 people out to celebrate. Visitors should include a stop at the nearby Romanian Heritage Center to learn more about the Romanian history in the area through artifacts and exhibits.

www.romanianheritagefestival.com

2.) Sugar Creek Slavic Festival
Sugar Creek, Missouri

When: June

Description: Immigrants from Czechoslovakia, Croatia and Poland influenced the culture of Missouri throughout the late 19th and 20th century. In 1986, the festival was formed to present living displays of various Slavic customs and events continued by the people of Sugar Creek. Traditional Slavic cabbage rolls, sausages and apple strudels are served alongside traditional music and dancing.

www.slavicfest.com

3.) Irish Fair
St. Paul, Minnesota

When: August

Description: Visitors to St. Paul's Irish Fair can drink in the Irish culture every August  while listening to some traditional songs from the Emerald Isle on three different stages. Learn how to play the Irish bodhran or watch the quick feet of the Irish dancers during other events. Other Irish crafts and food sell in the Irish marketplace during this free event.

www.irishfair.com