What better way to herald the fall season in Chicago than with a music fest on a global scale?

It’s time to make your plans for the World Music Festival. The jam-packed week of performances showcases both traditional and contemporary music from diverse cultures around the world.

The popular festival, presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, takes place across the city in museums, parks, cultural centers, plazas, theaters, clubs and other venues.

As usual, there’s way too much to take in, but also a guarantee that you’ll discover a performer from some distant country that will become a longtime favorite.

So enjoy, discover and broaden your musical horizons. We take a closer look at several of the acts scheduled to perform.