By Fiona Hurrell, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – This Saturday, May 26th, The American Society of Rio de Janeiro (AmSoc Rio) will be hosting their annual America’s Day celebration at the American School (Escola Americana do Rio de Janeiro, EARJ) in Gávea. The event pays tribute to American life and will include a day full of activities, music and food that is sure to appeal to all ages and bring the community of U.S. expatriates in Rio together.
Like many, Caren Addis, Director of Admissions at EARJ, is especially looking forward to the celebrations and opportunity to honor American heritage. She shares, “We love Brazil, but we also love the U.S. and miss these important holidays that define us as Americans. In addition, our children should understand the meaning of these holidays and the community that comes together to celebrate.”
Part of the main attraction for the day’s entertainment will include musical performances by bluegrass and gospel band ‘River Country Trio’ followed by rock, pop and country group ‘Banda ArizonA’.
Food will be traditional American, including (picanha) hamburgers, Frankfurter hot dogs, coleslaw, and tortilla chips with drinks provided courtesy of AmSoc Rio sponsor Coca Cola Brasil. For the adults, there will be free, locally brewed beer provided by the Lapa Café.
While adults enjoy the food and drink, children will be kept entertained by the arts and crafts tables as well as a number of fun party games such as egg toss and three legged races. Guests will also be given the chance to win a number of exciting prizes from the raffle draw including weekend trips, home decorations, meals out and much more. All proceeds from the raffle ticket sales will go to AmSoc Rio sponsored charities.
Aside from the food and entertainment however, the most important aspect, for many, is the sense of community that the event provides.
Long-time AmSoc Rio member Michael Royster admits that simply being together and sharing a common interest is what the day is about. He explains “The feeling that we’re almost in the U.S. that day, the U.S. that celebrates holidays with families will be the highlight.”
Not only does the party provide the perfect opportunity for families to gather together and honor their traditions and values, it also offers a practical purpose. For anyone wishing to vote in the upcoming U.S. presidential elections, volunteers will be on hand to help with the voter registration and absentee ballot forms.
America’s Day will take place on the green field of the American School on Estrada da Gávea 132 in Gávea from 12PM until 4PM. The event Tickets for the event can be purchased on arrival and fees for the event are as follows: Non-Members R$60, Members R$40, 7-12 year-old R$20, Children under six years old free. For more details visit The American Society Rio events page.