Cleveland Cultural Gardens set to host thousands for another One World Day
Aug. 25—As it has for decades, the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation this weekend will celebrate the globe.
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 27, the Cleveland Cultural Gardens — located in Rockefeller Park, which stretches between Interstate 90 to the north and University Circle on the southern end — will host the 77th annual One World Day.
The event aims to represent the theme of Cleveland Cultural Gardens: "Peace through Mutual Understanding."
"Tens of thousands of people attend One World Day to experience diversity in people, heritages, gardens, entertainment and food," a news release from CCGF states. "With the streets closed to traffic, visitors can stroll, bike, scoot or ride the free shuttles throughout the 250-acre footprint and visit many of the 40 or so gardens."
One of the notable events of the day will be a naturalization ceremony, in which people from 25 countries will become United States citizens, the release states. In addition, ethnic and cultural performances will take place on the main stage at the Centennial Peace Plaza, as well as in most of the gardens.
"When people visit a Garden," the release states, "they will experience the culture of that community."
Another event is the Parade of Flags, the release suggesting this year's will be the largest ever, with more than 1,000 people from more than 50 cultures marching with flags and traditional clothing of their heritage. More than half are set to play drums, bagpipes or other instruments. The emcees for the parade include reporters from all of Cleveland's four TV stations, with Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne set to serve as the grand marshal.
The interactive Children's Village has been expanded and includes a Market Place — one of three at One World Day — and five food trucks, the release states. Kids can try Cleveland Orchestra instruments, pet an alpaca, hear a story, play games and more. Also, free passports will be handed out, and when a child visits a garden, they will have a task or activity — such as how to say "hello" in Finnish — and then turn in the passport for a prize.
For adults? The beer gardens in the German, Serbian and Irish gardens. And speaking of food trucks, more than 20 are slated to be on site, with many gardens offering pastries and other ethnic food and drink, according to the release.
One World Day
Where: Cleveland Cultural Gardens, 10823 Magnolia Drive.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 27.
Admission: Free.
