Can't choose? No problem! Multicultural festivals, museums and permanent exhibitions let you experience the art, cuisine, music and dance of several different cultures at once. Here are some of the best:
The International Festival of the United States of America, known as iFest USA, is a national celebration of multiculturalism and diversity. Held in Houston, Texas, it is co-sponsored by UNESCO, the cultural arm of the United Nations. This annual festival brings together thousands of local, national, and international enthusiasts. Through exceptional exhibits and performances, it showcases a rich tapestry of international cultures and traditions.
Native Americans aren't just one monolithic culture; in fact, there are over 500 distinct tribes, each with legally recognized "nation within a nation" status and its own unique culture and history. The annual Gathering of Nations is an exciting time for many of those tribes to gather, share and celebrate. Widely acclaimed for over 40 years, the Gathering is also proud to welcome visitors from around the globe.
Courtesy of Gathering of Nations, Photos by Will Huston
An annual tradition held on the National Mall in Washington, DC, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival celebrates the regions and cultures of the U.S., with an added focus on extraordinary cultures worldwide. It brings traditional artists, musicians and dancers (some of whom have never travelled before), to share their cultures with an amazing array of performances, exhibits, and hands-on activities. Next scheduled for June-July 2025, it's well worth planning ahead.
Museum of International Folk Art
Art lovers of the world will adore the Museum of International Folk Art, located in Santa Fe, NM. Boasting the world's largest collection of international folk art, this fantastical museum features more than 130,000 objects from over 100 countries, yet somehow manages to stay approachable and family-friendly. When you can tear yourself away from the amazing art, you can explore American Indian artistry just steps away at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.
The joy of exploring world cultures has a long and happy history, and the International Cottages are a vivid proof. Built in San Diego's breathtaking Balboa Park for a 1935 International Exposition, the cottages continue to delight, with each of the 31 houses dedicated to a specific world culture. Exhibits are homey and hands-on, and houses take turns hosting the frequent dances and festivals.
Celebrating the rich diversity of the Seattle area, the Festal is a year-round series of 24 annual cultural festivals. Hawaiian, Vietnamese, Francophone nations, African, Polish, Indigenous, Arabic, Irish, Brazilian and Tibetan are but a few of the many offerings. Whenever you're in Seattle, you can be sure to find amazing performers and a terrific party -- all celebrating one or more of the many local cultures.
