Last year, we hosted our very community event, a Potluck Party with our host families in Kanto. It was a simple experiment: bring everyone together, share good food, stories, and see what happens. The event was so successful that this year, on February 1st (Sun), we did it again!
HelloWorld held our second Potluck Party with host families in Kanto. We will share some of the highlights of the first of many events to be held in 2026:
Just like last year, the room quickly filled with dishes brought by families from different homes, cultures, and traditions. Host families shared not only the meals, but also the meaning behind each dish.
Many participants shared how much they valued the opportunity to mingle and connect with other host families — not only from their own prefecture, but also from more distant places.
One family described the afternoon simply as “an enjoyable and great time,” especially the little games well thought-out to increase the engagement.
We were especially happy to hear that families felt the event was better organized and thoughtfully planned. The games and activities were designed to spark interaction — not just within familiar groups, but across especially among newly joined families.
Participants enjoyed being able to talk with almost everyone in the room. Many described the atmosphere as welcoming and easy to join, even if they had just met.
For current host families, this potluck was a reminder that you are part of something bigger than your house. You are part of a community of families who care about cultural exchange, connection, and growth.
And for those considering becoming a host family with HelloWorld — this is also part of the experience.
Yes, hosting brings meaningful moments into your home. But it also connects you to a wider circle of open-hearted families who are excited to share, learn, and support one another.
These are not just simple gatherings, but it’s becoming a tradition! These are the moments that turn a simple program into a community.
It was wonderful to meet participants from different families and countries who were so open in sharing their experiences — including what they felt went wrong and what they learned along the way. Hearing about their backgrounds and how they interacted with and hosted the Japanese guests gave us valuable insight and made the experience even more enriching. Overall, it was a very memorable and rewarding program.
It was wonderful to meet people from different countries and learn about their experiences with Japan and the Japanese guests.
It is safe to say that growing together and sharing our successful stories is becoming a new tradition at HelloWorld!
