A one-day mini-festival is coming to old town Nicosia this weekend to celebrate the country’s many communities, people of all backgrounds and colours and traditions. As the World Day of Cultural Diversity approaches, officially on May 21, one local organisation seeks to bring the notion to the capital as well. As such, Generation for Change CY organises the World Cultural Diversity Day 2023 this Saturday – a colourful afternoon event at Phaneromeni Square.
“Cyprus, being located between the three continents of Africa, Asia and Europe is at a crossroads where many different civilisations have left their mark,” say the organisers. “Just by walking through the historic centre of the capital you can feel the multicultural heritage of the city and the continued presence of diverse cultures through the architecture, the sights, the sounds and the smells that influence the city landscape.
“Although the division in Cyprus is associated with a bi-communal conflict,” they add, “the unresolved situation affects many more people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This year we are celebrating the World Day of Cultural Diversity, to showcase the multicultural reality that makes up the Cyprus of today.”
The event will take place at Phaneromeni Square in Nicosia between 5.30pm and 10pm, and promises to be an exciting and engaging celebration of cultural diversity. Individuals and groups from different parts of the world that share this island as their home will showcase their unique clothing traditions, music, dance, art, food and more.
Info stands, food stalls, DJs and performances will showcase the various cultural communities that exist on the island and present facets of their culture, customs and tradition. The event, under the World Day of Cultural Diversity notion, hopes to promote intercultural dialogue and respect for cultural diversity worldwide while highlighting the essential role of intercultural dialogue in achieving peace and sustainable development.
“This event is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the richness and beauty of our diverse island and world,” conclude the organisers, “learn about different cultures, and promote mutual respect and understanding. Join us in celebrating this day by mingling together our rich cultures and by learning from each other the importance of cultural preservation, the challenges of cultural integration, and the benefits of cultural exchange.”
World Cultural Diversity Day 2023
Event with stalls, food, music, dance and art to celebrate World Day of Cultural Diversity. Organised by Generation for Change CY. May 20. Phaneromeni Square, Nicosia. 5.30pm-10pm. Free