Columbia celebrates south Asia at annual festival

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Columbia is experiencing a bit of south Asia thanks to an annual festival.

The 18th Annual Columbia International Festival is scheduled for the weekend at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds.

The festival features an international food court and bazaar as well as dozens of national and cultural exhibits. There is also a fashion show, parade of nations and cultural entertainment from over 25 countries.

This year’s festival highlights the countries of south Asia, including Afghanistan, India and Bangladesh.

Festival organizers say they hope South Carolinians will enjoy the opportunity to learn about culture and arts from other countries.

Since its debut in 1996, the festival has averaged about 10,000 people attending each year.