This past weekend, the girls and I visited 30 countries in one day. Nope, that’s not a typo…30 countries in one day! We were at the City of Jacksonville’s 2011 World of Nations festival exploring different cultures, food and dancing. This annual event is the perfect way to introduce children to other cultures and an understanding of the world, all while getting a World of Nations passport stamped at each country.
I had planned all week to get there in time for the naturalization ceremony on Saturday morning, where over 50 people were sworn in as United States citizens. Sadly, juggling two babies is sometimes harder than you think…we got there too late. However, I saw many of our newest citizens enjoying the festival – with radiant smiles on their faces. What an amazing feeling that must be – I’m determined to get there in time next year to see it!
Each of the countries represented had its own area – filled with entertainment, along with food and native items for sale. If you leave this festival hungry, then it’s definitely your own fault. There were so many dishes to choose from for lunch – many of them I couldn’t even begin to pronounce. I assure you that they all looked and smelled delicious! And in true toddler fashion, the only thing Maggie wanted? French fries.
After a hearty lunch, it was time for the Parade of Flags! A representative from each country proudly carries their country‘s flag and welcomes festival-goers with a greeting in their native language. The colors of the costumes and flags were so beautiful.
Image courtesy of the COJ Special Events Office.
The World of Nations festival was a great way to spend the day with my girls. And while they may be too young to understand it now, it’s going to be a regular event in our house. It’s a fantastic place to have fun with your kids and sneak a some education in at the same time!
Do you have an event similar to the World of Nations in your city? What country would you like to visit?
**I received complimentary tickets to the World of Nations. The thoughts/opinions here are my own and not influenced by others.**
Comments
XLMIC
What a cool event!
Carrie with Children
It was really fun! I especially loved that all the kids were having so much fun that they didn’t realize they were learning too! 🙂
jennifer Symmes
Really? I’m so glad you guys had a nice time. David and I went once and the place was full of loud thugish types..cursing freely and blaring offensive music at nearly every turn. Didn’t seem like a very kid friendly atmosphere. Maybe the trick is getting there early in the day? We did go later in the afternoon so maybe that’s why our experience was very different. Hmm..you make me want to give it another try.
Carrie with Children
Oh Jennifer, that doesn’t sound like a fun experience at all! 🙁 We got there about 10:30 Saturday morning and left after lunch – the festival was filled with families! I definitely think you should give it another try next year.
Sara
Awesome event! What city do you live in?? I wonder if there is something close to me …
Carrie with Children
It was realy a lot of fun, Sara! I’m in Jacksonville, Florida! Is that close to you? If so, ours is an annual event – come visit!
Sara
Sadly no. I’m in Maryland. But will be on lookout!
@jordynrose_
This is amazing! Your so lucky you got to experience that. Do you know if it’s done around the country? If that was in Cali it would be a hit!
Carrie with Children
Thanks! It’s really a fantastic event! I’m not sure if they have it in other cities…I’ll see if I can find out and let you know!
Melissa
That sounds like so much fun! I would love for St. Louis to have something like that!
Carrie with Children
It was really fun! I’ve already told my hubby that he’s not allowed to miss it next year! He’d love all the food! 🙂
2commentaristas
Wow, that is definitely something that I would have loved to see! It’s a great way to get a taste of so many different cultures that create the world that we live in, especially if you’re not one of the few lucky ones that actually get to VISIT all of those countries, haha!
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Carrie with Children
It was really neat to experience all the different countries! I still can’t get over the variety of the foods from everywhere! It all smelled so good! Next year, I’m going to bring a bigger appetite! 🙂
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