Safeco Insurance Festál 2009, a series of 22 cultural festivals presented by Seattle Center in partnership with community organizations, continues with four lively festivals scheduled during the month of May:

Asian-Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration, May 3, 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m., at Center House

The festival, kicking off Asian-Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Seattle, explores the deeply rooted cultures of Asia through spectacular lion dances, youth drill teams, martial arts, Taiko drums and incredible artists from around the state. This diverse culture includes China, the Philippines, Samoa, Japan, the South Pacific Islands and Cambodia.

Spirit of West Africa, May 9, 12:00 noon - 8:00 p.m., at Center House

The traditions of six West African countries are explored through hip hop, jazz, rock, exhibits and storytelling. Live performances by top local and touring artists from Ghana, Senegal, Benin, Nigeria, Gambia and Guinea highlight this day-long event. Festival-goers may take part in ritual and celebratory African drum and dance workshops, learn how a drum talks and witness the healing drums of West African drum masters trained since birth to serve their communities.

Northwest Folklife Festival, May 22 - 25, various times, throughout Seattle Center

One of the largest folklife gatherings in North America celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest on Memorial Day weekend with music, art and dance. The festival hosts over 7,000 participants in more than 1,000 performances at 27 venues throughout Seattle Center campus. Folklore exhibits, diverse performances, cooking demonstrations, workshops and crafts explore the folk, ethnic and traditional arts of the region.

Glimpse of China: Chinese Culture and Arts Festival, May 30, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., at Center House

Music, art and movement tell the story of a rich and ancient culture. Festival-goers enter a virtual Chinese garden and partake in cultural traditions covering 5,000 years of China's history in this celebration of one of the world's oldest cultures. Martial arts and costumes provide the color and excitement. Gift booths offer authentic Chinese goods, and nationally acclaimed artists from the Northwest and China share their crafts and talents.

Join us at Safeco Insurance Festál and become a culture carrier (someone who contributes to cultural understanding through the sharing of stories, songs, music, food and family traditions). For more information on the Festál program and other Seattle Center activities and events, click on www.seattlecenter.com.

About Safeco Insurance Festál

Safeco Insurance Festál, presented by Seattle Center in partnership with community organizations, is a year-long series of FREE events that honors the cultural richness and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. Safeco Insurance Festál plays a vital part in Seattle Center efforts to connect our dynamic and varied communities.

This collection of 22 events is presented with the generous support of Safeco Insurance, Wells Fargo, Verizon Wireless and KUOW 94.9 Public Radio. Additional support is provided by The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, The Boeing Company, Seattle Center Fund and the City of Seattle.