Germany has been named the host country of this year’s Ethnic Expo. The expo, presented by First Financial Bank, is celebrating its 34th year. It will be held October 13th and 14th outside of Columbus City Hall.

Friends of Germany, will represent Germany at this year’s event. As host country, the cultures and foods of Germany will be featured in the main booth of the festival village and will be celebrated in the Ethnic Expo parade.

Ethnic Expo is organized by the City of Columbus and is made possible by generous donations from the presenting sponsor First Financial for the eighth consecutive year. Other sponsors include Coca-Cola, Vectren Foundation, ERMCO Electric and Milestone. City officials note that the expo is also made possible with support from the Indiana Arts Commission, the Columbus Area Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

“First Financial is proud to be a part of the Columbus community. We are honored to participate again in the annual Ethnic Expo, which focuses on gathering together to showcase our hometown’s diverse culture and heritage.” said Al Roszczyk, Regional President for First Financial Bank. “First Financial is proud to be the title sponsor for the eighth year and our team looks forward to celebrating with the community this October.”

The application deadline for International Food and Bazaar vendors is August 31st. Applications, rules regulations and other information can be found at www.ethnicexpo.org.