WHEATON – Would you like to explore multiple countries without ever leaving Illinois? At the annual 4-H International Night in Wheaton, visitors can discover the geography, culture and food of many nations, all while staying close to home.
“International Night is a rewarding experience for both 4-H youth and our communities,” said Andrea Farrier, 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator in DuPage County. “Through the 4-H Passport to the World project, youth not only learn about another country and its cultures, but they learn about being a good global citizen and gain skills in presenting to the community.”
4-H members spend months studying a specific country and then work together with their club to create a booth displaying the geographical and cultural aspects of the nation. All prepare craft stations or foods to reflect their study country.
On Friday, March 6, visitors will “travel” to the different countries by visiting the 4-H club booths, earning stamps for a passport each time they answer a trivia question correctly for a country. DuPage County Home and Community Education (HCE) Association also will host a booth. Featured countries include: China, Cuba, El Salvador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, and Uganda. D33 Ballet de Folklorico also will perform.
“Fun, hands-on activities like these nurture a passion for learning, as well as encourage youth to become good local and global citizens,” Farrier said. “International Night is just one of several 4-H opportunities that help youth raise awareness and understanding the world around them.”
Doors open on Friday, March 6 at 6:30 p.m. with presentations 7 to 9 p.m. 4-H International Night will be at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Enter from Manchester Road, with parking by building No. 2 and the event in building No. 1.
All ages are welcome to attend. A suggested donation for admission is $1 per person for ages 6 and older. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact the University of Illinois Extension office in DuPage County at 630-955-1123. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs. To learn more about DuPage County 4-H, visit http://go.illinois.edu/DuPageCounty4H