When in St. Paul: Cultural Diversity at the Festival of Nations

Every year, for a few days in Spring, the world comes together and homes in on an itty bitty part of St. Paul, Minnesota. At the River Centre, cultures from around the world are showcased with food, music, arts and local products.

You get to go around the world with a “passport” and get it stamped at each “country” you visit. 

My passport and the different ways my name could be spelled/ written/ expressed in different countries. 

There, you meet people who would gladly chat with you about their culture.

Some Polish trinket boxes

Thai decor

Chinese youths presenting traditional Chinese dance

Mexican dance

There’s no room for the close-minded here. You come here to learn something… if not to eat something new.

The busy food hall. You can see each country's backdrop, and their food are on display on the front. 

The delicacies are delicious! Even if you are not a brave foodie, there’s sure to be something for you here. From sausage to samosas to egg rolls and strudels, surely there’s something here to whet and consequently, satisfy your appetite.

Korean Mandu with Gochujang

Colombian Patacones and Chorizo

My favorite this year: Danish Aebleskiver! Delicious fluffy pancake balls!

I’m sure it’s intimidating to step into a world about which you know nothing. But how else can you bridge that gap if you don’t at least open your mind and take the first step towards the unknown? At the Festival of Nations, you’re still safely in America.

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