Cornwall Ontario – If you ever wanted to travel around the world in one day, then you had your chance this past weekend.

The Parade of Nations held its annual Multicultural Festival on November 29th and 30th at the Cornwall Civic Complex. In June, we focused the Parade of Nations in The Seeker and gave you a history and some information on its background.  The organization hosts yearly events to promote our area’s culture and multiculturalism.  Local dignitaries officially opened the festival which featured a parade with many country flags, artists, artisans, a silent auction, song, dance, demonstrations and performances from various countries of the world such as China, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Togo and Akwesasne just to name a few.

Very proud Canadian poet Tim Turney, an 88 year old man from Monkland shared his poem “My Canada ~ My Home” which brought a tear to a few eyes in the audience. There were trophies for costumes, a fashion show and wonderful displays by local groups such as the Cornwall Canada Tai Chi Club, The Rhythm Room with Jody Marsolais, Roxanne Delage, the Road House Dancers and many others.

The Parade of Nations invites the community to get behind their initiative and grant them their support by donating money, volunteering, becoming a sponsor or attending their events. You can email info@paradeofnations.com or visit the website online at www.pardeofnations.com  for more information.