Embassy Row ditches stuffed-up diplomacy for all-day dancing and more

Traditional dance. Photo by Bing Branigin

On May 3, the Philippine Embassy became the ‘happiest place’ with fun, festivity and food greeting some 7,000 visitors to its open house.

“It reminded me of the fiestas back home,” raved teacher Peggy Mendoza of Sterling, Virginia about “Passport DC: Around the World Embassy Tour,” an event organized by the District of Columbia Cultural Tourism Office. More than 50 foreign embassies participated in this springtime cultural event now on its seventh year.

Jose Mercado, who was just visiting the Nation’s Capital, was pleasantly surprised to see Embassy Row come to life. “I did not expect this, it’s so refreshing so see this kind of event here.”

For about six hours, visitors could enter foreign embassy offices and find out what’s behind those forbidding walls and gates. What greeted them were friendly embassy staffs and offerings of food, cultural exhibits and entertainment.

Foreign visitors marvel at the Paete wood and fruit sculptures.

Ambassador Jose Cuisia could not help but quip, “We were able to let people know why it’s more fun in the Philippines,” in reference to the Philippine government’s tourism campaign.

The embassy event recreated the feel of a Filipino fiesta with organizations, such as Georgetown University’s Club Filipino and the Migrant Heritage Commission showcasing traditional dances. Filipino cuisine was provided by restaurants and caterers, among them Jollibee; Filipino Global; Tito Al’s; Lumpia, Pancit Atbp; and Luming’s.

Dancers came in sooted faces and wearing Ati-Atihan costumes. The ‘tinikling’ lessons – or how not to get your feet caught between two bamboo poles — were an instant hit. Paete wood carvers impressed visitors with their skillful wood and fruit sculptures

Guests were treated to an exhibition of martial arts such as arnis and escrima courtesy of the DC Lightning Scientific Arnis of Virginia and Pinakatay Arnis Sigidas of Maryland.

Through it all, the Northern Virginia Rondalla played serenade and dance music on their string instruments.

“Seeing these makes me want to go home to the Philippines for a visit,” said Justine Ramos of Glen Burnie, Maryland, the look of longing showing in her eyes.

Ati-Atihan dance and costumes a hit among embassy visitors.