PassportDC kicks off its 18th year
Colorful Chinese dragon dances, Peruvian music and the aroma of rich Ethiopian coffee were just some of the scenes along DC’s Embassy Row last week as more than 60 diplomatic and cultural missions opened their doors to the public for the annual Around the World Embassy Tour on May 3.
Hosted by EventsDC, it’s one of the premier events of PassportDC, a month-long celebration showcasing the city’s diplomatic community and vibrant international culture. Visitors received a souvenir passport and collected stamps at each stop, where embassies offered a variety of cultural experiences, including live performances, fashion shows, traditional cuisine, art exhibits, shopping and more.
Highlights of the day included live performances and a cooking demonstration at the Embassy of China, art and textile displays from six countries at the Embassy of the African Union and folk dancers and crafts at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway.
PassportDC continues for the rest of May, with the European Union Open House on May 10 and Fiesta Asia street fair on May 17.
Photos by Patricia McDougall
EU recognizes U.S. leaders strengthening transatlantic ties
Four distinguished guests were recognized at the European Union Delegation’s annual Transatlantic Bridge Awards on May 7. Margaret Brennan, of CBS News, US Rep. Nathanial Moran (R-TX), US Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Fred Hutchison of LNG Allies were honored for their contributions to strengthening US-EU relations.
Hosted by EU Ambassador Jovita Neliupšienė, the ceremony coincided with Europe Day, which commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration — a key milestone in the foundation of post-war European unity — and the 40th anniversary of President Ronald Reagan’s address to the European Parliament. The EU Delegation will continue the festivities this weekend with the EU Open House, inviting the public to immerse themselves in various cultural acitivities European embassies have to offer.
Photos by the EU Delegation.
