By Joanna Vidal A photo of me at the National Mall where the Festival was held. My Experience at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival: Representing UAE Heritage The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, established in 1967, is one of the largest cultural events in the world. It takes place annually on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and typically runs from June 22nd through the 4th of July, overlapping with U.S. Independence Day. After a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival returned in 2022 with renewed energy—and I was honored to be part of it. That year’s theme was “UAE: Living Landscape | Living Memory,” with the United Arab Emirates as the featured country. The event highlighted the UAE’s rich history, heritage, culture, and traditions. It was sponsored by several governmental organizations, most notably the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth, and supported by the UAE Embassy to the USA. As someone who has worked in the heritage field for nearly eight years at this...
I’m so glad you’re here. This blog is a little corner of the internet where I share the things that bring me joy from traveling and discovering new places to diving deep into the beauty of everyday life. I created this space not just to express my personal experiences, but to inspire. Whether you’re navigating life solo or simply searching for a spark of motivation, I hope my words help you feel more confident, more courageous, and a little more connected. Let’s grow, glow, and explore together.