Have you ever dreamed of traveling to far away countries and exotic places? If you happen to be in Jacksonville in the spring time, you can become a globetrotter without needing a passport or a plane ticket. Pack your bags and bring your family, friends and neighbors to Metropolitan Park for an exciting adventure around the world. During the annual World of Nations Celebration, held May 3 – 6, 2012, Metropolitan Park transforms into a multi-ethnic marketplace of cuisine, crafts and entertainment of people from throughout the world. With more than 30 countries represented, the festival provides a unique look into cultures from across the globe.
The City of Jacksonville and the event organizers will bring the world to you showcasing sights, sounds, and tastes of different nations within your reach. Embark on an exciting journey, traveling throughout the park where travelers may see nations and regions. Here is the list:
- The Bahamas
- Cambodia
- China
- Colombia
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Haiti
- India
- Israel – new
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Lebanon
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Panama
- Peru
- Philippines
- Poland
- Puerto Rico
- Russia – new!
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- St. Lucia
- Taiwan
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Turkey
- U.S.A.
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
Other happenings during the weekend:
Naturalization Ceremony
You can witness the commemorative ceremony when people are sworn in as United States citizens. April 20, 2011 at 10:30 am
Parade of Flags
The inspirational Parade of Flag takes place on Saturday, April 20, 2011 at 2 pm. Kids of different nationalities dressed in traditional clothing from different countries carry their native flags in the parade.
World of Entertainment
Come to the festival and experience talents from many different countries, see folk dance, listen to music and more.
Passport to the World
To get you and your kids feel like real world travelers, make sure to pick up your official passport to the world. Each country will stamp your passport during your exploration and at the end of the day, you can turn in your passports at the booth near the main entrance for a chance to win prizes.
Hours
Thursday, May 3
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Registered Field Trips only
Friday, May 4
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Registered Field Trips only
5 p.m. – 9 p.m. International Party
Saturday, May 5
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 6
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Ticket Prices
Admission to our World
International Party (Friday night only)
$5 per person
One Day Ticket (Saturday or Sunday only)
Adults: $5.00
3 years & under: Free
Two Day Round Trip Ticket (Saturday and Sunday)
Adults: $8.00
3 years & under: Free
Three Day Ticket (Friday-Sunday)
Adults: $10.00
3 years & under: Free
Discounts
$1 off admission with military or senior citizens I.D.
For more information visit the website.
