Ames will be the site of one of the largest and most diverse multicultural events in Iowa this Saturday when Families of Ames Celebrating Ethnicities, or FACES, represents more than 200 countries in what organizers called a haven of exotic talent, rare musicians, and an enticing selection of foods.

Held in downtown Ames, participants can expect the best of both worlds, as indoor and outdoor events will fill the day with an endless selection of opportunities.

“In the last 10 years, we have become very conscientious of the diverse culture within our community,” said Ames Mayor Ted Tedesco. “As a community we represent many different countries every day.”

FACES came into existence through the work of several small, multiracial discussion groups known as Dialogues. It was created as an opportunity for residents to enjoy a celebratory atmosphere while improving and fostering relationships.

“This idea originally came from the citizens of Ames who recognized the great cultural diversity within this city and wanted an event to honor that,” said Kori Heuss, co-chair of FACES. “People are really reaching out and talking about their practices. We’re lucky to have such exposure to so many different people.”

Heuss said more than 2,500 people attended last year’s event.

This year’s festival will be bigger and will welcome several changes, including a wider food selection, Heuss said.

“We have two stages, inside and outside, to provide more entertainment,” Heuss said. “We also have more space inside City Hall to move the events in case of bad weather, which slowed us down last year.”

The festival will include live entertainment, interactive booths, a designated “kid-zone” area and various demonstrations, as well as a variety of vendors featuring foods from around the globe, Heuss said.

“I think the food alone might be worth the trip,” she said. “Everyone will definitely find something that will fit their taste preferences, from the Thai chicken or sushi to the gyros and meatballs on a stick.”

With the exception of the food selection, the entire festival is free for everyone.

“The performers we have lined up are world-class entertainers who would normally charge for their shows, yet are doing it as a favor for FACES, which we really have to appreciate,” Heuss said.

Leticia Romo, president of the Hispanic Heritage Committee, said they will be trying to introduce their culture in a way that isn’t overwhelming.

“We’re going to be more geared toward the children,” said Romo, senior in management. “Last year we were more information-oriented, but this year we want to give children the means to take something with them.”

In the midst of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Mexican-American Young Achievers Society (MAYAS) will also utilize creative means to reach out to the younger generation.

“We want to explain to them tradition of our culture, by showing them traditional celebration,” said Jason Smolka, MAYAS president.

Children will have the opportunity to play pi¤ata and make their own crafts at the MAYAS booth.

“Last year there was all in all a feeling of receptiveness, people were enjoying themselves and having a good time,” said Smolka, senior in electrical engineering.

More 200 volunteers made this celebration possible, Heuss said. Most came from Iowa State.

“What’s nice about volunteer work is the experience in various areas,” she said. “There is so much to do that it would be impossible to experience all that the festival has to offer.”