Veteran Broadcaster Tory Ryden to host 24th Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations

PORTLAND, Maine - July 21, 2026 - PRLog -- The Greater Portland Festival of Nations is proud to announce that veteran journalist, broadcaster, and documentary producer Tory Ryden will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies for the 24th Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations, taking place Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Deering Oaks Park in Portland, Maine.

Presented by Women in Need (WINI), this year's Festival continues to expand with new partnerships, family-centered programming, and community engagement, including the recently announced collaborations with Martin's Point Health Care and The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine. Together, these additions reflect the festival's ongoing mission of bringing people together through culture, education, and shared experiences.

Ryden brings nearly 35 years of experience in journalism and media to the festival. Throughout her distinguished career, she has earned a reputation as one of Maine's most respected storytellers, working as a television news anchor, radio show creator and host, and independent documentary producer. Her passion for interviewing, writing, and producing stories that highlight the human experience has made her a trusted voice across the state.

"I am honored to be part of this year's Festival of Nations, celebrating the rich diversity of Maine's immigrant, refugee, and multicultural communities," said Ryden. "This is a moment in time that carries extraordinary significance. The opportunity to celebrate the people, cultures, traditions, and stories that strengthen our communities is something I deeply believe in, and I'm excited to help bring those stories to life throughout the day."

Festival organizers say Ryden's ability to connect with audiences and tell meaningful stories makes her an ideal choice to guide this year's celebration.

"Tory Ryden has spent decades elevating the voices and stories of people throughout Maine," said Michael Odokara-Okigbo, Executive Director of the Greater Portland Festival of Nations. "Her warmth, professionalism, and genuine curiosity about people embody everything this festival represents. We are thrilled to welcome her as our Mistress of Ceremonies as we celebrate the cultures that make Maine stronger."

Now in its 24th year, the Greater Portland Festival of Nations has become one of Northern New England's premier multicultural celebrations, bringing together thousands of attendees for a day of international music, dance, food, artisan vendors, educational exhibits, and cultural demonstrations. This year's event will feature performances from artists representing cultures from around the world, expanded children's programming in partnership with The Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine, community resource organizations, and interactive experiences for families of all ages.

With the addition of Tory Ryden as Mistress of Ceremonies, festival organizers believe the 2026 event will further strengthen its commitment to celebrating the stories, traditions, and people that define Maine's diverse communities.

24th Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations

• Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Location: Deering Oaks Park, Portland, Maine
• Admission: Free and open to the public
• Presented by: Women in Need (WINI)

https://www.festivalofnationsmaine.com/