Experience cultures of Europe at September festival

Take a trip across the pond to experience the vibrant cultures and long-held traditions of Europe at the Morton Arboretum's Passport Europe Festival.

Including storytelling, dancing and authentic cuisine inspired by several European countries, the event is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24 and 25, at 4100 Route 53, Lisle.

Each day, three performance areas will feature traditional music, dancing and storytelling. Hear a 12-foot-long Alpenhorn play during a set from oompah band Jimmy's Bavarians. Polka enthusiasts can dance to Danny Mateja and the IPA Tribute Band. For some Spanish flavor, listen to Guitarra Azul, a flamenco-style ensemble featuring Spanish guitar.

An assortment of dance groups will perform, including Salt Creek Ballet, McNulty Irish Dancers, Thistle and Heather Highland Dancers and Dionysus Greek Dancers. Visitors also can enjoy European folk tales told by storyteller Chris Fascione or immerse themselves in German fairy tales and songs by performer Barb Sorenson.

Visitors are invited to learn about trees at the arboretum that are native to central and northern Europe. Indigenous to countries such as Norway, Belgium and Germany, the trees represent some of the oldest on the arboretum grounds. Visitors are invited to explore the arboretum's hiking trails while learning more about the European trees.

The festival is free with arboretum admission of $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $9 for ages 2 to 17, and free for younger children and members. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs as arboretum seating is limited.

For information about the Passport Europe Festival, visit mortonarb.org.