The Festival of Nations, held at the St Paul RiverCentre, was the largest multi-cultural event in Minnesota until it was cancelled due to Covid in 2020. In 2023, the difficult decision was made to permanently close the event due to other priorities for Minnesota’s immigrant population. The Twin Cities Slovenians are now becoming active with other local cultural events where we can promote our heritage.
Started in 1932, the Festival of Nations provided an interactive educational experience about the different cultures that make up our community. A popular activity for students was having their faux passport stamped for each country’s exhibit they visited.
Experiencing a little bit of Slovenia
Volunteers wore ethnic costume and some spoke Slovenian. A popular question was how someone’s name is pronounced in the language. Visitors were encouraged to ask our volunteers about Slovenia.
Besides the exhibits, dancers and musicians performed on stages throughout the event. There were demonstrations by authentic folk artisans, a bazaar for your shopping pleasure, and of course a food court where you could taste your way around the world.
The Twin Cities Slovenians had an exhibit in the Festival since 2008. For each year, click on the theme next to the year to see the pamphlet for that year.
2008 – Art and Architecture
2009 – Inventors and Innovators
2010 – Folklore, Legends and heroes
2011 – Marketplaces of the World
2012 – Ethnic Celebrations and Events
2013 – Children, Our Past and Our Future
2014 – Peace Among the People
2015 – International Arts
2016 – Folklore of Slovenia
2017 – Ceremonies & Rituals (puzzle answers)
2018 – Exploring Historical and Contemporary Traditions
2019 – Slovenian Culture – Prešeren Day Brochure
