I probably don’t need to tell you that this dog loves a good party, with lots of good food scraps, playful music and dancing, and plenty of cheerful folks to pet me. Fortunately, I can get my weekly dose eight months out of the year at the Sunday afternoon Lawn Programs, presented on a rotating basis by the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.

Each festival offers a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the distinctive flavors, colors, and sounds of the hosting “House.” And while I try not to play favorites, I do like to single out from time to time a couple of programs especially worthwhile, because, quite frankly, the more bipeds that attend, the more food scraps end up on the ground for me.

Take for instance the cultural festival this Sunday, August 30, presented by the House of Panama, which features the dancing of its very own folkloric group, “Sonares de mi Tierra.” Just as importantly, on the menu will be such Panamanian delicacies as ropa vieja (shredded beef, stewed with vegetables), ojaldres (Indian fried bread with meat and sausage), and patacones (fried plantain).

The following week, September 6, we jet over to Eastern Europe as the House of Ukraine serves up its own colorful costumes, entertainment, and treats. Headlining will be a Canadian-Ukrainian Dance Company, while the tasty dishes for the day include varenyky (hot dumplings), kapusta (cabbage and sauerkraut) and kovbasa (sausage) sandwiches. Don’t forget to bring an empty stomach!