Back to EventMore Weekend Activities
Saturday, May 5
Naturalization Ceremony, 10:30 a.m.
Witness the commemorative ceremony as people from all regions of the globe are sworn in as United States citizens. The National Anthem will be performed by Sarah Harris of Trinity River Bluegrass Band.
Parade of Flags, 2 p.m.
Don't miss the inspirational Parade of Flags on Saturday as representatives from each country proudly carry their native flag. Dressed in authentic traditional clothing, they offer a greeting in their native language to represent the many cultures of our world.
Saturday, May 5 & Sunday, May 6 Activities
A World of Entertainment
Experience rich traditions, beautiful customs and intriguing talents from many countries. See dragons dance, hear new music for the first time, listen to fascinating storytellers and maybe even learn to folk dance! The possibilities are endless! Times and performances vary.
Passport to the World
No trip around the world would be official without a passport! As you arrive at the World of Nations Celebration, be sure to pick up your Passport to the World. Each country will officially stamp your passport as you explore and learn about each destination along your journey. Passports can be turned in to the Passport to the World booth for a chance to win fabulous prizes.
Prizes include:
- An autographed football signed by the 2011 Arena Football Champions, the Jacksonville Sharks
- An exciting Family Fun Night at the Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex, which includes 4 admissions/skate rental, 1 large pizza and 4 drinks
- A family 4 pack to escape to The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
- A family 4 pack to enjoy the fun at Wild Adventures Theme Park
- Tickets to enjoy the excitement at the 2012 Greater Jacksonville Fair
- A list of prizes from the Jacksonville Landing including: a gift certificate for The Landing restaurant, 2 food court vouchers and fun gifts to take home from the Toy Factory, Sports Mania and Dipper Dan’s.
- Tickets to visit the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum
- A gift certificate to enjoy 3 free, 60 minute Zumba classes at Studio Jear
- Two One-Day Adventure Passes to enjoy the outdoors at Stone Mountain Park
- A family fun pass to Ripley's Believe It or Not in St. Augustine, FL, along with 1 family pass on the Sightseeing Train
- Tickets to enjoy the fun in the sun at Adventure Landing water park
- A family pass for 4 to visit the Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
- A family pack for 4 to enjoy the sounds of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
- A guest pass, good for 4 guests, to visit The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine
- 2 daily passes to enjoy the fun at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
- A multi-language book teaching infants different languages from Tada Sounds
- 1 month of free group swimming lessons (valued at $125) at the Swim Safari Swim School
- A 2012 family membership to the Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens
- A personal pan pizza gift card to Northstar "The Pizza Bar"
- A model fire truck, stuffed Dalmatian and free sub cards from Firehouse Subs
- A family pass for 4 to visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
- A pair of tickets to take part in the ultimate moviegoer experience at Sun-Ray Cinema
- A $25 gift certificate to Jacksonville Wild Wing Café (Southside)
- A $20 gift certificate to Santa Maria Restaurant
- A $25 gift card to The Green Alligator Toy Store
- A $25 gift certificate to Beach Diner
- A $40 gift certificate to Whitey's Fish Camp
- An annual vehicle pass, good for parking at both Huguenot Memorial Park and Hanna Park for an entire year.
More prizes to be announced!
Free River Cruises
Enjoy free river cruises along the St. Johns River aboard the Lady St. Johns on Saturday, May 5 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday,
May 6 from 11 a.m. – 5p.m. courtesy of Jax River Cruises.
USA Pavilion
USA Presented by Florida Blue featuring Campaining in America: Stop by the USA area for a variety of activities and information about campaining in America including make and take campaign buttons and political party crafts, White House Press Room photo opportunity and campaign trivia and presidential decor and a voting station to vote for your favorite World of Nations Celebration country.
Worldly Flavors
Taste the rich flavors from each country pavilion as local multicultural groups and vendors serve up delectable dishes from around the world.
Here is a just a sampling of what you may find:
Umdambi from South Africa; Pad Tai from Cambodia; Egg Rolls from China; Churros from Cuba; Empanadas from Ecuador; Kann (sugar cane) from Haiti; Tandoori Chicken from India; Cannoli from Italy; Grape Leaves from Lebanon;

Quesadillas from Mexico; Ceviche from Panama; Causa Rellena de Atun from Peru; Lumpia from the Philippines; Kielbasa from Poland; Arepa from Puerto Rico; Man-doo from South Korea; Paella from Spain, Chicken Lo Mein from Taiwan; Baklava from Turkey; Hamburgers and Hot Dogs from USA; Tequenos from Venezuela; Lemon Grass Chicken from Vietnam and much more!
International Marketplace
Shopping around the world has never been easier! Each country pavilion has a variety of unique crafts, jewelry, clothing, instruments, accessories and special products that represent their culture.
2012 Participating Non-profit Organizations
Check back for updates coming soon!