My First BABEL Parade

A story told by Mara, eight and a little bit

Mom told me that tonight there would be a beautiful parade, with music, colorful costumes, and people from many countries. She said it was something special, part of the BABEL Festival. I started jumping around the house with excitement and told her we had to go early.

We arrived way before it started, but to me it felt like we were already late. I couldn’t wait. I was hoping for something magical to happen. And it really did.

Suddenly, there was a loud noise — some men and women came in on motorcycles! They looked serious and loud, but to me they seemed like modern-day knights. Then I heard the brass band — the men played beautifully, with shiny instruments.

In front of them, boys and girls were dancing. The boys wore long, colorful shirts and held flaming torches, and the girls wore dresses that twirled like flower petals. I told my mom: “Look, mommy, they’re like real princesses!”

There were children in the parade too, carrying flags and walking nicely next to their teacher. They looked very proud. I danced with everyone, clapped my hands, and smiled all the way. Some people were holding signs with the names of the countries visiting Târgoviște.

Then came the fireworks, jumping on the ground like playful fireflies. And at the end, we arrived in a big square. There was a stage, and a man with headphones was playing music. Everyone started dancing. I danced too, until my legs got tired. I spun around, I laughed, I felt like the whole world was my friend.

It was the most beautiful evening of the summer. I want to go again next year. Maybe if I learn to dance really well and wear a pretty costume, they’ll let me be in the parade too.

Until then, I’ll keep growing. But I’ll never forget this night.