World of Nations Celebration is an annual international festival held in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. It is North Florida’s largest multicultural festival, and features exhibitions and events from a variety of countries. It has been held at Metropolitan Park every May since 1993.
The celebration is designed to showcase the diverse immigrant and international communities of Jacksonville and the northeast Florida area. It hosts over 75,000 visitors, including 12,000 children on school field trips. On Saturday morning, there is a naturalization ceremony at 10:00 am, where as many as 50 people become U.S. citizens.[1]
Each “country” represented has its flag on display, at least one person speaking that country’s official language, and serving food native to that nation. Many play traditional music and demonstrate their style of dance or relate stories from their culture. Artwork and clothing/costumes representing the country are also exhibited. The celebration also includes the “World of Kids Playland”, which features arts and crafts and other programs for children.
Istanbul Cultural Center attends the world of nations celebration every year representing Turkey. Come by and visit our tent to enjoy the delicious Turkish food and activities.