On September 19, the Seattle Sister Cities Association brought the world to Lake Union Park with “Celebrate the Signpost,” a vibrant community street fair celebrating Seattle’s 20 sister cities and the connections they share across the globe.
At the heart of the celebration was Seattle’s new international sister city signpost, a symbol of the city’s many friendships around the world. The family-friendly event invited the community to explore different cultures through informational booths, crafts and games, live music and dance performances, international cuisine, and exciting giveaways.
The day featured an eclectic lineup of performances that showcased the diversity of Seattle’s sister city relationships. Guests enjoyed music from the Kareem Kandi International Orchestra, “Crossing the North Sea” featuring fiddlers Rachel Nesvig and Brendon Vance, and contemporary Italian dance music from DJ Joy Sgobba. The Eurasia Academy and Arts Ensemble, Khmer Amarak Performing Arts, and iDancer Traditional Chinese Dance also brought music, movement, and cultural traditions to the celebration.
Food was another highlight, with attendees able to enjoy internationally inspired offerings from Moe Vegan, Bumbu, and Caffè Umbria while connecting with members of Seattle’s diverse community.
Special guests included Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, who served as the event’s emcee. Her participation underscored the importance of international partnerships and cultural exchange in strengthening connections between Seattle and communities around the world.
“Celebrate the Signpost” was co-sponsored by the Seattle Sister Cities Association, the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, 4Culture, and the City of Seattle.
Through events like this, Seattle’s sister city network demonstrates how citizen diplomacy comes to life at the local level. From a signpost in a city park to music, food, art, and personal connections, Seattle’s 20 sister cities are helping bring the world closer to home.
