Passport DC 2024, a vibrant celebration of Washington, DC’s international diplomatic community, showcases a month-long array of cultural activities, prominently featuring the EU Open House. This event falls every year on the first Saturday after Europe Day on May 9, falling on May 11, 2024. This date marks the signing of the Schuman Declaration on May 9, 1950, which established the European Coal and Steel Community, a multinational entity that would eventually become the European Union as we know it today. During this day, embassies from across the European Union open their doors to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore diverse European cultures without leaving the city.
Participation
The EU Open House event, part of Passport DC 2024, was held on May 11, 2024, and saw participation from 26 European countries, which showcased their culture at various embassies across Washington, DC. This event was well-attended, with thousands of visitors taking advantage of the opportunity to experience the rich cultural offerings from different EU nations in a single day. The embassies provided a variety of activities, including food tastings, music performances, and art exhibitions, making it a culturally enriching experience for attendees.
Art Exhibitions
Art exhibitions are another cornerstone, with embassies displaying traditional and contemporary artworks that tell stories of their heritage and contemporary cultural dynamics. Some embassies also offer interactive sessions like language workshops, where participants can learn basic phrases or traditional calligraphy, enhancing their engagement with the culture.
What People Are Saying
“The Portugal Embassy's open house was a delightful immersion into Portuguese culture! From the live Fado music that filled the air to the tasting of authentic pastéis de nata and a showcase of traditional ceramics, every detail was thoughtfully curated. It was like a mini-vacation to Lisbon!”
“I loved the atmosphere at the Hungarian embassy. The traditional dancing and food were superb, making it feel like a true Hungarian festival. Can’t wait for next year!”
“Exploring the Romania Embassy was a highlight of the EU Open House! They showcased an incredible array of cultural artifacts, and the live demonstration of Romanian folk dances was captivating. Tasting authentic Romanian wines alongside traditional dishes like sarmale made the experience unforgettable.”
“Love the ability to experience different cultures through the embassies. The exhibitions each put up were engaging, thoughtful and beautiful!”
“The French and German embassies' joint event was fantastic! The biergarten was lively, and the blend of cultures made for a truly European experience without having to book a flight!”
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