‘Multicultural Fair’ celebrates East Portland’s communities

It was held after the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade; see all the fun folks had at a traditional springtime festival in Lents …

These “Good Luck Lions” from Lee’s Dragon & Lion Dance Association kick off the 10^th Annual Multicultural Fair and Carnival at Eastport Plaza.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Following the 10^th annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade, many participants and spectators had good reason to head for the parade’s starting point on April 10, Eastport Plaza – they were there to enjoy and participate in the tenth annual Multicultural Fair and Carnival.

“It’s a wonderful day for the fair,” smiled its hostess, Eastport Plaza Manager Dianne Gill.

Multicultural Fair host Dianne Gill spends a moment with 82^nd Avenue of Roses Business Association past President Richard Kiely of Homerun Graphics, and Eastport Plaza Office Manager Raelynn Evans.

“This year about 50 vendors were there, and community service groups put up displays and demonstrations for the public,” Gill told East Portland News.

Even with the fair located in the main parking area – including exhibitor tents, the entertainment stage, and cruise-in – parking was plentiful on the sides and rear of Eastport Plaza.

Dozens of local businesses and community organizations exhibit during the fair.

Molly Ward, an official Hot Dogger with Oscar Meyer, says she’s one of the 12 pilots of the “Wienermobile”, on display at this outer East Portland event.

Representing China, and performing the “Monkey Dance”, are members of the Portland Art & Cultural Center Dance Troupe.

Nanette Tran of Portland Chinese Times put together an entertainment lineup of ten acts, representing the countries of:

United States of America
Brazil
The Middle East
China
The Philippines
India
Japan
Mexico

Providing lively fun at this year’s fair: The Clowns of America 2016 “Clown of the Year”, Cha Cha the Clown.

Enjoying her first pony ride – they’re free at this fair – is Hailey Lopez-Rivera.

Scott Hurd polishes up his the 1967 Mustang he’s taken to car shows for eight years. “The best part is being able to go out shows like this, and cruise around the neighborhood,” Hurd says.

Again this year, car cruise-in impresario Ted Finlay and his family put on a great show featuring antique, custom, and specialty vehicles.

“We have about 175 vehicles on display,” Finlay said. “Judges present trophies in 49 categories. The best part was we were able to raise funds to help Operation Safe Canine Animal Rescue.

Both spectators and participants enjoy this annual cruise-in.

FUNTASTIC Shows again provide rides appealing to both the little kids and older kids-at-heart.

Back at the stage, representing Indian culture, are performers from the MonaLisa Art Institute.

It’s takes a lot of effort, Gill conceded, to put on such a fair. “But, to have the opportunity to ‘give back’ to our community makes it rewarding.

“Seeing the smiling faces of kids on the free pony rides, and enjoying the clowns, makes our Multicultural Fair a great way to cap off the parade,” Gill remarked with a grin.

The Beat Goes On Band takes the stage for a performance as this year’s springtime Multicultural Fair continues.

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