Smithsonian Folklife Festival Celebrates Bhutan

Traditional Bhutanese dancer
Today marks the start of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. celebrating… Bhutan. Yeah!
The festival will celebrate Bhutan’s very special approach towards life, namely that of Gross National Happiness. Included in the program, which runs through July 6th, are 100 Bhutanese artists, dancers, craftspeople, cooks, carpenters, farmers and representatives from the religious community.

Interior decorating in a Bhutanese restaurant
Artisans will showcase their work, including textiles, carvings and paintings while dancers will perform traditional masked dances. There will even be an archery demonstration!

Our guide in Bhutan, Tshering, who was a national archery champion.
Having just returned from Bhutan, I can attest to the very special nature of the Bhutanese people and encourage you to visit this festival if you’re in the area.
Alternately, you could join me for a Wanderlust and Lipstick ladies-only tour in April
To see photos of my recent trip to Bhutan, visit my WanderGallery.
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