New Citizens to Take Oath at Reston Multicultural Festival

More than two dozen naturalized American citizens will take their Oath of Allegiance in front of an audience at Lake Anne Plaza on Saturday.

The swearing-in has been a tradition at the Reston Multicultural Festival the last 12 years as people from a variety of countries become the newest U.S. citizens in a ceremony capped by the release of doves.

The naturalization ceremony begins at 12:30 p.m. with remarks by Sarah Taylor from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Taylor will also administer the oath of allegiance.

Musical performances will include the Star Spangled Banner by South Lakes High School Chorus members and God Bless America by Reston performer Beverly Cosham.

After the ceremony, Bolivian dancers will lead participants and visitors across the plaza for the rest of the day’s celebration.

From 1 to 6 p.m., the festival becomes a mix of world music, dance, crafts, stories and food on two outdoor stages and an indoor space (Jo Ann Rose Gallery). There will be Chinese martial arts, Flamenco dance, Ukranian egg decorating, Indian classical dance and a public art project made of origami cranes, among others.

Visit Reston Community Center’s website for the full slate of events. Admission is free.

Photo: New U.S. citizens at Reston Multicultural Festival naturalization ceremony, 2012/file photo