LEWISTON – A party to celebrate Somali and U.S. independence will feature Sudanese dancers, African drummers and lots of food donated by the Somali community.

The African Immigrants Association is hosting the second annual celebration this Friday to mark Somalia’s independence from Italy and Britain and America’s Independence Day.

Organizers hope the combined celebration will give people an opportunity to share stories and learn about one another.

Speeches by Lewiston Assistant City Administrator Phil Nadeau and Somali elders will address the unification of Somali and American cultures and provide an overview of Somali independence.

An array of food, including plantain and rice dishes, will be available at 7 p.m. Music and dancing will follow. The event, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Lewiston Multi-Purpose Center, is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted.

Go and do

What: Independence Day party

When: 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, July 1

Where: Multi-Purpose Center, Lewiston

Admission: Free and open to the public

Contact: Abdullahi, 783-4744