This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Longmont Sisters Cities is hosting two upcoming events for its tri-lateral exchange with sister cities Ciudad Guzman, Mexico and Chino, Japan.
The first event is their Get Acquainted Party, which will be held on July 30 at Willow Farm Park. The second event is Thanksgiving in August on Saturday, August 8.
"When the Japanese and Mexican children return with our American kids (ambassadors) we have a welcome picnic. That's their first joint community event that we have to say 'Welcome back to Longmont, American kids. And welcome Mexican and Japanese kids to our city,'" states Vice President of Longmont Sister Cities Board, Courtney Michelle.
The Get Acquainted event allows the exchange students to get to know each other by sharing a meal and playing games.
"The final event before they leave is Thanksgiving in August," says Michelle. "We do that because it is a unique American holiday."
Thanksgiving in August includes turkey cooked by the Longmont Sister Cities board of directors and side dishes and desserts are brought by the participating families.
These events are a part of a 10-day tri-lateral exchange, where student representatives from all three cities gather in Longmont. According to Michelle, this tri-lateral exchange is a "unique experience within the International Sister Cities organization."
"We just want people to know more about Sister Cities so we invite anyone to come and if you come bring a dish."
Both events are "open to the public by request for an invitation," states Michelle. To request an invitation contact Courtney Michelle at [email protected].
To learn more about Longmont Sister Cities visit http://longmontsistercities.com/.
