small world. big party.
Rancho Cordova iFest is a festival designed to celebrate the ethnic diversity of the community and reach out to newcomer groups by offering an opportunity for them to showcase their cultural heritage. The event is a free, family-friendly evening offered in a park setting. It celebrates the sounds, dance and tastes from around the world? and around the corner. Our motto is "Small World. Big Party."
COLLABORATORS
This volunteer-driven event is organized by a Cordova Community Council planning group that included representation by the Rancho Cordova Sister Cities Council, Cordova Recreation and Park District and community residents.
Business collaborators included food vendors and sellers of imported goods in the iFest International Bazaar. The centerpiece of the event was the colorful and lively entertainment line-up on stage in the amphitheater and a "hands on" children's stage in the area called "It's a Small, Small World." Admission to the event and entertainment was free of charge.
ATTENDANCE
Participation is broadly diverse, with performing groups representing more than a dozen international cultures. Audience members were all ages, with families making up the biggest sector. Event re-branding and aggressive publicity led to a turnout estimated at 4,000, which was a four-fold increase over the previous year. Rancho Cordova iFest has the potential to become a signature event for the community.
PUBLICITY and PLANNING
This event is marketed to the community through local media and 20,000 high-quality flyers distributed through the newspaper, schools and our own powerful e-news network.
iFest enjoyed heavy coverage by local media and post-event coverage included a photo layout in the Grapevine Independent.
Planning cycle begins in February, with sponsor deadlines for collateral materials including publicity flyers, programs and volunteer gear April 15. Event marking begins with quarterly publications in April, and publicity campaign beginning May 1.
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are encouraged to engage in this wonderful event. Volunteers will be needed in the planning, set-up and execution of the event. Volunteer organizations with an international or cultural message will be welcome to become exhibitors at the event. All entertainment is volunteer and must be arranged for in advance. Volunteer recruitment will begin in April. Those wishing to assist in this wonderful event are encouraged to contact Shelly Blanchard at 273-5704.
SPONSORS
In 2009, our sponsors included Walmart, Progressive Insurance, Jolie Nails, Allied Waste, Rancho Cordova Rotary Club, Interact Club of Cordova High School, City of Rancho Cordova and the Cordova Recreation and Park District.
In 2010, sponsorship opportunities are numerous as the event grows and expands due to its high quality entertainment and popularity within the community. Included are:
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iFest Stage sponsorship
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Small World Stage sponsorship
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Venue sponsors
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Event programs
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Event signage
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Activity and entertainment sponsors: with additional sponsorships, iFest would bring in diversity-related educational exhibits and productions and renowned international performers. The International Bazaar has the potential to stretch down Capital Village Drive into the commercial district, benefitting business interests in that area.
Rancho Cordova iFest is the Cordova Community Council's diversity showcase. If reaching out to ethnic populations by celebrating their rich cultural heritage is what you seek, join us at iFest 2010.
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