August 9, 2011 > A celebration of unity and freedom A celebration of unity and freedom Each year, the corner of Paseo Padre Parkway and Walnut Avenue in Fremont comes alive with music, dance and colorful attire, celebrating India's culture, history and independence. The Festival of India, hosted by Northern California's Federation of Indo Americans (FIA), presents a showcase of Indian culture and heritage. Booths displaying arts and crafts, literature, clothing and jewelry, ethnic food, businesses and other resources are featured at this two-day event. The festival begins with a health fair on Saturday at 10 a.m. during which attendees can receive a comprehensive health review from physicians donating their time and expertise. Cultural programs and a dance competition follow in the afternoon. One of the biggest attractions of the festival is the parade. Aside from featuring famous, distinguished guests, the parade will include floats showcasing the cultures and lifestyles of India's 27 states. This year's Grand Marshal will be Bollywood film star Mallika Sherawat. An Indian Musical Extravaganza featuring famous Bollywood singers and a popular dance competition showcasing different regions of India promises to draw a big audience. These include Bollywood (Indian movies), classical and folk dance of different states of the country. Festival of India Saturday, Aug 13 and Sunday, Aug 14 39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy and Walnut Ave., Fremont www.fiaonline.org. Festival Schedule: Saturday, Aug 13 Health Fair: 10 a.m. - 12 noon Mela (Fair): 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Cultural Program: 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Dance Competition: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Bollywood Concert: 6:00 p.m. - 08:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug 14 Mela (Fair): 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Cultural Program: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Parade: 12 noon - 2 p.m. Gala Awards: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Singing Competition (Final): 3 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Celebrity Banquet: 8 p.m.