Around the World in 3 Days

You don't have 180 days? Travel to 12 countries in three days via their dances instead!

The largest ethnic dance festival in Southern California is back, closing in on two decades of international entertainment.

The , beginning Friday at the (CoSA), features traditional dances from Mexico, Ireland, Afghanistan, China and India, to name a few on the schedule. It's the fourth year the fest has been in Coronado.

“Down the line, I see this as a remendous benefit for the school. I see it expanding to all the departments,” said Betzi Roe, chair of the school's dance programs.

More than 150 dancers and musicians will come together, including CoSA students – who held a school performance Friday morning – belly dancers, ballerinas and even the San Diego Chinese Folk Dance Ensemble.

Roe said the offerings range from Asian story theater to Brazilian dance and folk music.

“All the culture is happening on our stage,” she said.

Global cultures will also show up in other ways. Various vendors will set up a world market where for art, jewelry, home décor and more. Here's a sneak peak at the offerings.

An added benefit for retired and active servicemen and women: Friday is Military Night, where personnel with ID can purchase up to five tickets for $10 each at the theater box office. Only cash and checks will be accepted.

If you're feeling lucky, choose Sunday's show: At that intermission, a free drawing will be held and gift cards from local restaurants will be handed out.

There are four shows: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets for the dance festival cost $15 for students and children, $20 for military (after Friday) and seniors, $25 for general admission and $30 for reserved seating. Normally, tickets can be purchased online in advance, but the system is currently down.

You can purchase tickets at CoSA’s box office 45 minutes before each performance. You can call 619-504-3052 or email the box office manager with questions.

Jennifer Vigil contributed to this report.