Who needs a passport to see the world? The Bay Area has one of the most diverse and vibrant populations in the world and, thanks to these cultural festivals, you can learn Bollywood dance moves, hear unique music from around the world, and try exotic foods for the first time for less than the cost of a cab ride to the airport.

BOLLYWOOD NIGHTS
Wed July 25, 6 – 10pm
$5
Conservatory of Flowers, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
After Hours at the Conservatory of Flowers promises a spicy evening of Indian culture, food, music and dance for 21+ crowd. A main feature of the night is Bhangra, a traditional Punjabi folk music and dance that guests can watch and learn.

Nihonmachi Street Fair

NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR
Japantown Peace Plaza, San Francisco
Sat August 4 – 5, 11am – 6pm
FREE
This annual festival celebrates Asian/Pacific communities in the Bay Area with live music, dance performances and food. The fair also features handmade crafts from Asian artisans like Waka Ozawa, Pomegranate designs, Kayoko Designs and more.

FESTA COLONIALE ITALIANA
Sat August 11, 11am – 6pm
San Francisco Italian Athletic Club, 1630 Stockton Street
FREE
Join the San Francisco Italian Athletic Club at North Beach for a fun-filled day celebrating the rich Italian culture that has existed in San Francisco for generations. Indulge in this free mouth watering festival that’s the only one of its kind!

Flickr: Kennejima

J-POP SUMMIT FESTIVAL
Sat-Sun, August 25 – 26, 11am – 6pm
Post Street in Japantown
FREE
A collaboration between New People, the Japantown Merchants Association and Bizarre Bazaar, the J-Pop Summit Festival presents handmade arts and crafts, modern Japanese films, fashion, music, art, retail design and pop culture. Includes exclusive celebrity appearances and film premiers. Expected attendance of 70,000 people.

Check out KQED Arts for more arts-related ideas.
– By Nicole Zeichick and Adrienne Blaine