Want to experience the rich culture of Europe, the Middle East, and other faraway lands but don’t want to hire a pet sitter and jump on a plane? Then this weekend’s Windows to the World event is perfect for you. On the weekend of 22-23 October, embassies and high commissions around Canberra invite the public to experience what their countries are all about.

Spread across both days, some embassies are only open for one while others welcome guests all weekend. The event promotes the unique cultures of foreign countries, offering insights and a chance to connect with community members you may otherwise not come across.

The family-friendly events encourage locals to ditch the cars, with free buses and shuttles arranged to loop around the embassies from Yarralumla and O’Malley. Where possible, leave handbags and backpacks at home as many embassies won’t allow you to take them inside. All you’ll need is good shoes, a hat, ID, and your wallet so you can buy some of the delicacies and goods on offer.

With all that out of the way, let’s get on to the fun stuff. What kind of events can you expect to see?

On Sunday, the Republic of Croatia is offering up a taste of home with traditional food and wine, or delve into the country’s history with presentations, quizzes, and an exhibition. Test out your soccer skills ahead of the World Cup with the soccer clinic. Boasting one of the world’s most stunning coastlines, a day soaking up Croatian culture is sure to please. Sadly, there will be no dalmatians to welcome you, Windows to the World is a service animal only event.

The fan favourite Finnish Crazy Games return to the Embassy of Finland on Saturday. Do a few laps in the hobby horse race, test your mobile phone throwing skills, or pick up your significant other and take part in Hän Carrying. Prizes to be won throughout the day include Finnish beer and a Nokia smartphone. If those activities have you worn out, relax in a traditional sauna or take a virtual trip to Finland. Snacks are plentiful in the market hall where you can sit back and enjoy the live music.

“Canberra is unique amongst Australian cities with its network of embassies and high commissions,” says Ambassador of Finland, Satu Mattila-Budich. “Windows to the World provides a great opportunity for the public to peek behind the walls and gates to experience a variety of different cultures.”

Ms Mattila-Budich says not only is the day an opportunity to show the lighter side of Finnish culture, it also offers something for their Nordic community here in the capital.

“For the Finnish community in Australia, this is an opportunity to reconnect with familiar sights and sounds. For everyone else, it’s a chance to get to know Finland through our food, people, music and language.”

Jet off from Europe and head to the Middle East at the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. On Saturday, they offer the opportunity to be fully immersed in their rich culture. Aromas from cooking demonstrations will tempt you, with the food to be enjoyed when ready. The cultural pavilion allows you to explore some of the newest cities in the kingdom or travel back in time and witness the ancient tombs and treasures of Hegra.

Before heading home, make a stopover in Africa at the Kingdom of Morocco. Learn about the long history of the country through an exhibition and display of traditional outfits. The first Moroccan state was established back in 788, while the country has been inhabited for more than 90,000 years. Discover the culture with a traditional tea ceremony then try some of their wonderful natural products.

If you are feeling patriotic, make a quick stop at Australia’s own Parliament House. While the program hadn’t been released (at the time of going to press), we can only hope it has a sausage sizzle and Vegemite. Our Indigenous Australians will hold a smoking ceremony at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy on both days, however, ticket allocations have been exhausted.

Entry into the embassies is free, but bookings are required with some already at capacity. There will be a waiting list on offer for cancellations; be sure to sign up so you don’t miss your next holiday destination.

Secure your spot and find more details on transport at events.canberra.com.au

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