Press Release: Passport DC 2020 and Around the World Embassy Tour Postponed

News Release — Cultural Tourism DC

Contact:

Steven Shulman, Executive Director

WASHINGTON (March 18, 2020) — Due to public health crisis of COVID-19 and the health emergency enancted by the federal and local governments, Cultural Tourism DC, Inc., announced today that it will postpone its 13th annual Passport DC and Around the World Embassy Tour  programs.

“Most of the Passport DC signature events have been postponed.  We think it prudent to do the same and will postpone Around the World Embassy Tour, our annual embassy open house that was scheduled for May 2, 2020,” said Steve Shulman, Executive Director of Cultural Tourism DC.  “We made this decision with the health, safety and well-being of our community as our number one priority.  We will select a new date when it becomes clear that coronavirus is dissipating and the government regulations regarding public gatherings are lifting.”

Around the World Embassy Tour is the day embassies representing countries in Africa, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East have opened their doors to the public. Over the past 12 years, the event has attracted thousands of people to DC on the first Saturday in May. In 2013 and 2015, the American Bus Association named it one of the Top 100 events in North America.

“We look forward to offering the embassy open houses later this year. Embassy visits give guests the opportunity to celebrate the similarities between peoples and cultures and observe the differences that make us a truly interesting world,” added Shulman. “The embassies work hard to showcase their cultures’ music, food, arts, and other activities, simultaneously educating and entertaining guests. It truly is a special day when we can bring together thousands of people to celebrate how connected we are to one another.”   

In addition to the postponement, Shulman said the Cultural Tourism DC offices will be closed through March 31. The staff will work working remotely and focus on providing DC residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy and, where possible, patronize DC neighborhoods.

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