Latin, Russian and even jazz and bluegrass music radiated throughout the day from the stage at Lake Kittamaqundi as revelers sampled global cuisine, browsed arts and crafts and took part in more at Columbia International Day July 26.

The event, organized by the Columbia Association, is held to "celebrate the cultural and ethnic diversity that makes Columbia special," Shelia Green, of the Columbia Association, wrote in an e-mail.

About 5,000 people from Howard and surrounding counties attended the event, Green added.

Krish Narasimhan, of Hickory Ridge, said the event was just "the right size," making it easier to keep an eye on his children and adding to the community feel of the fest.

"It's very cozy," Narasimhan said.

Children's activities such as face painting, balloon sculptors, a moon bounce and others were held from 1 to 5 p.m., with international music, like the Russian group, Samovar, and dancers performing throughout the day and into the evening.

An umbrella exhibition, themed "Fables and Folklore Around the World," showcased art that reflected various cultures and international themes and was on display until dusk, according to Liz Henzey, of the Columbia Art Center, which hosted the exhibit.

Food booths featured fare from Italy, Greece and other countries.

At 4 p.m., visiting students from the High School Exchange program, from Columbia's two sister cities -- Cergy-Pontoise, France, and Tres Cantos, Spain -- were introduced.

For two weeks in June, a group of students from Columbia visited France or Spain. Their French and Spanish counterparts, in town for two weeks also, were invited to participate in International Day festivities.

Green said all in all, the day was a hit.

"The event was extremely successful -- especially due to the great weather and low humidity."

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