This weekend, the World of Nations Celebration took over Jacksonville’s riverfront — bringing people from all across the city together for a global experience along Bay Street.
The two-day festival at Ford on Bay concentrated food, music, and culture from around the world all in one place.
From the sounds of live music to the smell of food cooking, the energy was felt the moment you stepped onto the riverfront. Traditional dances, authentic cuisine and handmade goods transformed downtown into an international showcase.
“I think it’s amazing that the city of Jacksonville is very connected and multicultural, from Latinos to Arab descent, from any part of the world,” Anderes Restrepo, who represented Colombia at the festival, said.
This year, 29 countries were represented — each sharing a piece of their heritage with the community.
Restrepo said the opportunity to highlight his culture was deeply personal.
“It means a lot, this country is giving me so many things, so many gifts, it’s given so many gifts to the world, and I really hope to be able to show the rest of the world what it means to us,” Restrepo said.
Organizers say the celebration is about more than entertainment — it’s about connection.
“We also just enjoy being able to put the cultures on display. They can come out. They can display the wonderful food, you smell the smells, and expose people to their culture. Where else can you do that all in one place,” Alex Alston, Executive Director of the Office of Sports & Entertainment, said.
Fittingly, 25 people from several countries took the Oath of Allegiance at the event, officially becoming United States citizens.