World Village Festival 2025 – Opening Day with Indo Idaho🎉
A Special Opening Day: World Village Festival 2025 🎉
The World Village Festival 2025, hosted by Global Lounge at JUMP!, kicked off in the best way possible with stories, food, and the warmth of community. And this year, Indonesia was right at the heart of it all.
Stories That Stay With You
One of the most moving moments of the day was meeting Brian Kimmel, author of Blue Skies, Troubled Waters. He shared the powerful true story of twin sisters who grew up in New Jersey, were suddenly deported to Indonesia, and later imprisoned during the Japanese invasion. Listening to him talk about their journey wasn’t just about history, it was about resilience, family, and the way stories connect us across time and cultures.
People didn’t just sit and listen. They asked questions, reflected, and connected with Brian directly. It felt less like a lecture and more like a shared conversation.
Food That Feels Like Home
Of course, no celebration is complete without food. The smell of spices filled the air as Bude Tanti showed everyone how to make two Indonesian favorites: Rendang (tender beef slow-cooked in rich spices) and Corn Fritters (crispy, savory, and absolutely addictive). Here to find the recipes.
The best part? Everyone got to taste them fresh! Watching people’s faces light up as they took their first bite was a reminder that food really is the easiest way to bring people together.
A beautiful starting day
The opening of the festival wasn’t just about showcasing culture, it was about sharing it, tasting it, and living it together. From heartfelt stories to plates of delicious food, it was a day filled with connection.
If you were there, thank you for making it special. If not, don’t worry, the festival has just begun. There’s so much more to experience, and we’d love to see you at the next event!