WASHINGTON DC
Over 100 members of the Goan diaspora gathered at Cabin John Regional Park, MD, for the annual picnic hosted by the Goan Association of Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
It was a beautiful summer day, perfect for outdoor festivities. The attendees also celebrated World Goa Day (WGD), marking its 25th anniversary, a moment to honour the community’s roots and its enduring connection to Goa.
The day was filled with activities for all ages. Children enjoyed face painting and arts and crafts, while adults tested their knowledge with Goan trivia and joined lively rounds of bingo. Cultural performances added a festive touch to the evening.
The rendition of Konkani satire highlighted a culture of collaboration and celebrated food and spices through artistic expression and comedy, showcasing the rich traditions of Goa. Members of the Mangalorean and East Indian diaspora also participated, reflecting a spirit of unity across communities.
A spread of food, different from traditional Goan cuisine, kept everyone energised throughout the day. Snacks, sliders, pasta, vegetables, desserts, peri-peri chicken, barbeque hotdogs, and funnel cakes were served amid lively music. Games and competitions added excitement, with winners announced in each category.
Rabbie Godinho, President of the Goan Association, and the executive committee worked to ensure the picnic ran smoothly, creating an environment that fostered connection across generations and strengthened the bonds of the diaspora.
“As President, it was my honour to be a part of the 25th WGD celebration that showcased our culture and traditions unique to the Goan community. My sincere gratitude to all who attended and made our picnic a day to remember,” said Rabbie.
Attendees shared their thoughts on the gathering, noting that it was a wonderful outing that celebrated Goan culture and language in solidarity with the community worldwide.
Said Harish Wagle, who attended the picnic with wife Dr Sheetal and son Sharv, “Between the food, the music, and the laughter, it was a celebration of who we are as a community.”
The event brought together children, parents, and grandparents in a shared spirit of joy and belonging.
The picnic highlighted the importance of preserving Goan culture, sharing it with younger generations, and building bridges between diaspora communities.
For over 100 attendees, it was a celebration of food and fun and a meaningful gathering that reinforced identity, community, and the ties that bind them to Goa.
