Festival of Nations

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OVERVIEW

Festival of Nations brings an energy you can’t find anywhere else! Ignite your senses with cuisine and drinks from around the world, dance to music spanning genres, shop international and local arts and goods, and do it all with purpose.When people from different cultures gather to share music, food, art, and traditions, we get to know each other on a deeper and more personal level. We create a spirit of unity where every culture is seen as unique and special, and no culture is truly foreign.Produced by the International Institute of St. Louis, the Festival of Nations is the region's biggest multicultural event of the year. Originating in 1934, the two-day event is open to the public and attended by more than 100,000 people and features the traditions, flavors, sounds, and art of more than 75 nations.Together, we'll highlight the vibrancy of multiculturalism, celebrate our unique identities, and create community impact, cultivating a more prosperous region for all. Join us August 26–27 and be a part of this unforgettable experience.

The Festival of Nations has been a prominent event in the city for many years. It was envisioned not only as a local celebration but as a festival recognized across the nation. Drawing inspiration from renowned brands like Coachella and South by Southwest, we collaborated to craft a brand that could evolve annually, yet maintain a timeless and immediately recognizable foundation for the next thirty years. The narrative also shifted towards a music-centric theme. By prioritizing the inclusion of internationally acclaimed artists, this year marked the beginning of uniting diverse ethnicities from around the globe into a harmonious music festival cherished by all.

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Process

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OUTCOME

Unfortunately, the opening day was marred by incessant rain, following a week of gorgeous, sunny summer weather. Yet, despite the cool breeze, overcast skies, and rain on Saturday, thousands of enthusiastic attendees were undeterred. Fortunately, the weather improved significantly on the next day, attracting even larger crowds than usual for the second day of the event. Throughout the weekend, hundreds of thousands of visitors flocked to the park, making the event a resounding success not only for the city of St. Louis but also for the International Institute, which has ambitious plans for the coming years.