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Festival of Nations
| | Travel the World without a Passport at the
2008 Festival of Nations May 1, 2, 3 & 4
RiverCentre
175 West Kellogg Blvd.
Downtown St. Paul Established in 1932 by the International Institute of Minnesota, the Festival of Nations is designed to bring Americans of all backgrounds together - native and naturalized citizens alike - to share the ties with our past and take pride in the richness of diverse cultures in our community. At the Festival of Nations, we are able to renew a sense of dignity in our respective ethnic heritage. At the same time we have the opportunity to develop an appreciation, rather then just toleration, of the culture of others as we build for the future together. At the 2008 Festival of Nations, 90 different ethnic groups from around the world will share their foods, crafts and traditions that form the mosaic of our American culture. Enjoy one of the nation’s largest and longest-running multi-cultural events and discover that there is so much more to who we are. | | |  |  | | Japanese Childrens'Traditional Dancer | Kontraband CroatianTamburica Music | Shop at the International Bazaar – Shopping from around the globe, with imported gifts including clothing, jewelry and artifacts from many cultures. View Ethnic Demonstrations 
.– Folk artisans practicing crafts passed down through generations and interactive, educational demonstrations are featured. New in ’08 – The world’s largest African map presented by the National Geographic Society (complete with teachers facilitating a walk on the map), the “Earth Balloon,” which takes visitors around and inside the earth, and more. Dine at Ethnic Cafés – Enjoy the different tastes found around the world at 35 different ethnic food cafés. From Norwegian lefse to Thai noodles, each café benefits a non-profit organization. New in ’08 – A Somalia café makes its Festival of Nations debut. Enjoy the Entertainment – Over 90 adult and children’s dance groups, featuring brilliant costumes and choreography, and live music are just part of the continuous entertainment at the Festival of Nations. New in ’08 – Hayor Bibimma’s African music and dance, GRAMMY-nominated Malian kora player Mamadou Diabate, traditional Chinese instrument virtuoso Ying Zhang and more. Experience Cultural Exhibits – Groups showcase their distinctive cultures through exhibits, with a focus on “Arts & Architecture.” Visitors can pick up a Festival of Nations Passport to be stamped at each stop on their travels around the 60 exhibits. Special Feature:
 Flag Unfurling
The American flag is unfurled daily, in the hands of participants from 90 ethnic groups. This ceremony is a tradition at the Festival of Nations and it's a symbol of the diversity we have in St. Paul and across the state.
Presented since 1932 by the 
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