Do you want to travel the world without leaving Canberra? Windows to the World is back on 21 and 22 October.
The city’s embassies and high commissions will open their gates for visitors to see inside. Diplomatic missions are technically legal territories of their home countries – but no passport is needed to visit.
As a prelude to the event, visitors to Floriade on Saturday 14 October can experience the culture and traditions of more than 15 countries that will exhibit at Commonwealth Park.
From 10am, you can wander through the Embassy exhibits exploring art, crafts, and activities designed to teach you about the various international cultures. You can even try on traditional clothing and accessories, jump into a booth for a souvenir photo, and taste traditional foods and beverages.
“The popular event is a window to Australia’s diversity, highlighting the many cultures that make up our own multicultural society,” Tara Cheyne, Assistant Minister for Economic Development, said.
“As the nation’s capital, we are fortunate to have Embassies and High Commissions from around the world at our doorstep. Windows to the World offers visitors an insight into cultures through exhibits, activities, and performances and a chance to experience a world within our city.”
Twenty-six embassies and high commissions will take part:
- Africa: Botswana, Morocco
- Latin America: El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Venezuela
- Asia: Afghanistan, India, Indonesia, Japan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka
- Europe: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Serbia, Spain, Sweden
“This popular event provides a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate world cultures and the multicultural blend that contributes so richly to what it is to be Australian,” Ms Cheyne said.
Most sessions this year do not require bookings. Check the website for more information.