Programming
Overview

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Three days of deep meditation, music, dance, and inspirational talks.

Welcome to the 4th World Cultural Festival!

Arrive one hour early to explore and enjoy cuisines from around the world.

Programming

Friday

Sep.29 6:00pm - 9:30pm

The Howard University Showtime Marching Band

Playing nationally and internationally, from NFL games to the inaugural parade for Barack Obama, we welcome this acclaimed 150-member Showtime Band to kick off the festival.

The Howard University Showtime Marching Band

The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”

This 18-piece premier jazz ensemble of the renowned “Pershing’s Own” will be inaugurating the festival with pomp and circumstance.

The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”

An inspiring rendition of our national anthem with the elite Army Chorus and award-winning DMV high school choirs

National Anthem by the U.S. Army Chorus and Youth Choirs

A Native American blessing and acknowledgement of the landbyelders of the Piscataway and Lakota Tribes, followed by 100 Native American dancers and drummers

Native American Dance, Drums, and Land Acknowledgement

Blessings Invocation

250 high school students and 100 adults perform “United We Celebrate” with Grammy-nominated artist Chandrika Tandon

Blessings Invocation

Sounds of the Swiss Alps

Elegant harmonies of Swiss alphorns, the original wooden wind instrument of Switzerland

Sounds of the Swiss Alps

Saturday

Sep.30 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Beats of Go-Go Music

Pulsating beats and infectious energy of Washington’sPulsating beats and infectious energy of Washington’s go-go bands, featuring the legendary hip hop hall of famer, DJ Kool. iconic go-go bands.

Beats of Go-Go Music

“I Belong 2 U” Youth Chorus

Pop influencer Jini June with 100 children, spreading a message of harmony

“I Belong 2 U” Youth Chorus

The harmonious sounds of nadhaswarm, a classical South Indian oboe

Nadhaswaram Oboe Symphony

Sounds of the Swiss Alps

The Swiss alphorns return for a reprise performance.

Sounds of the Swiss Alps

Garba dance

Grammy Award winning Falu Shah, and other esteemed musicians provide the musical inspiration for 10,000 Garba dancers as they dance around the National Mall in a spirit of celebration.

10,000 Garba Dancers for Unity

Songs and Smiles: A 1,000 Person Celebration of Chinese Culture

Chinese classical choir, classical dancers, dragons, and kung-fu in a fusion of  music, and movement

Songs and Smiles: A 1,000 Person Celebration of Chinese Culture

Sunday

Oct.01 9:30am - 1:00pm

Chenda Melam: Kerala Percussion Ensemble

Percussionists showcasing the beats and rhythms of Kerala, India

Chenda Melam: Kerala Percussion Ensemble

Caribbean Carnival Showcase

A festive celebration of Caribbean music, culture, and joy, with dazzling costumes and a steel drum band

Caribbean Carnival Showcase

Living Traditions: Dances of Israel

A brief, moving musical voyage through the history of Israel, culminating in a celebratory “Hora” dance

Living Traditions: Dances of Israel

Living Traditions: Dances of Israel

The captivating allure of the Argentine tango transports audiences back to the iconic 1920s era of Argentina

Argentine Tango Sizzle

Traditional Dances and Melodies of Nepal

Dancers in vibrant costumes, representing the spiritual traditions of Nepal

Traditional Dances and Melodies of Nepal

Iranian Folk Orchestra

An ensemble of traditional instruments, timeless love songs, and spirited folk dance, celebrating the rich tapestry of Iran’s diverse culture.

Iranian Folk Orchestra