International Day keeps building on its successes

Vibrant, colorful outfits flashed through Camera Park in Glendale Heights as people of different nationalities strutted their cultures Sunday.

"It keeps getting bigger and better every year," Mayor Linda Jackson said.

During Glendale Heights' sixth annual International Day, hundreds of residents came together to learn about other cultures and share their own customs with residents.

Polish, Czech, Indonesian, Malaysian, Indian, Pakistani, Korean, Mexican and Italian traditions were exposed throughout the afternoon. While some showed off unusual fabrics during a fashion show, others danced across a giant stage as music blared through the park.

There also were booths where people could taste samples of ethnic foods and purchase jewelry and outfits.

Two groups of dancers with United Moravian Society, which meets at the village's Clubhouse weekly, performed Czech dances while dressed in full, ethnic costumes.

Maria Kolek couldn't stop moving to the beats as her students went all out on stage.

"I think it's important to have a good heart and believe in the culture that you're promoting," she said. "And we have fun."

Joan Domzaliski of Glendale Heights has attended the festival almost every year. She keeps coming back because she always has a good time with her husband, Steve, and 7-year-old son Steven.

"I like the event," she said. "I like to see the costumes and all the different nationalities."

Trustee Ed Pope couldn't keep his eyes off the dancers.

"It's just a nice way for people to come out and show other people a little bit about their heritage," he said. "I love the outfits."