Around the World - Global Village Iowa City Arts Festival

The Global Village has been a part of the Iowa City Arts Festival since 2003. So, what is it?

"Global Village is an opportunity for local groups and organizations to share information and knowledge about other countries and cultures with kids," says Lisa Barnes, executive director of Summer of the Arts. The Iowa City Public Library puts on children's day on Sunday during the Iowa City Art Festival, and they decided to add this component on Saturdays.

"I think this is really important especially in this community that is extremely diverse. people have the opportunity to learn more about different cultures," Barnes says. She believes that learning the differences between the countries and cultures will make children more accepting of people who are from different backgrounds.

In 2008, Barnes saw a replica of the Great Wall of China built by Girl Scout Troop 8131 for World Thinking Day.

Jill Cronbaugh, who helped her daughter with the replica, recalls Barnes telling her that they must bring it to the Global Village. Since then, the girls have been bringing their huge replicas of monuments from different countries to Global Village.

This year, people will be seeing a Taj Mahal at the Global Village.

Before the construction began, the girls put effort into understanding the culture and lifestyle of India, recalls Cronbaugh. Various facts about India will be posted on the Taj Mahal's wall. The booth will also have Indian food. Arts and crafts activities will be available for children to participate in.

Global Village can be found at the Iowa City Arts Festival on Saturday, June 2, 10a.m. - 4p.m.