To everyone who braved the all-night event at Expo 2025, you know it was a long and exhausting night. The massive crowds and long lines made it a grueling experience for many. But what turned a potentially “hellish” night into an unforgettable memory was the incredible kindness of staff at the Netherlands Pavilion, the Portugal Pavilion, and countless other heroes on the ground.
1. Pavilions That Kept Hope Alive Until Dawn
As the night wore on, most pavilions closed their doors, but a few chose to stay open to offer weary visitors a place to rest.
- The Netherlands Pavilion:
- Instead of closing, they opened up their indoor spaces as a rest area.
- Staff members went above and beyond, handing out warm tea to tired visitors and telling them to take it easy.
- They even opened their rooftop, offering a breathtaking view of the city lights and providing a serene spot to wait for the sunrise.
- The Portugal Pavilion:
- The staff here took it a step further, not only opening their doors but also creating an impromptu party.
- They started an impromptu dance to traditional Portuguese music, cheering everyone up.
- Visitors, who had been sitting tiredly just minutes before, were soon clapping and cheering, their spirits lifted by the staff’s energy.
2. The Heroes Who Provided Water and Security
The true magic of the night wasn’t just in the pavilions; it was in the small, spontaneous acts of kindness from countless people.
- Dedicated Staff Members:
- Despite working all night, they greeted every person with a smile.
- One staff member, seeing a group looking lost, immediately guided them to an open rest area.
- Others handed out free water bottles to prevent dehydration, a simple but life-saving gesture.
- Security and Police:
- The police and security guards weren’t just there to keep order; they were a lifeline.
- When an elderly person felt unwell, a security guard was quick to call for medical assistance.
- They also helped find a lost child, ensuring a panicked parent was quickly reunited with their family. A police officer’s kind words—”We’re here to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time”—were particularly comforting.
3. Conclusion: A Night of Compassion
The all-night Expo was a test of endurance. But what we’ll remember isn’t the long lines or the fatigue; it’s the profound kindness we witnessed. The generosity of the Netherlands and Portugal pavilions, combined with the unwavering dedication of the staff, security, and police, transformed a difficult night into an unforgettable experience.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, to everyone who showed such amazing compassion. You truly made the Expo a place of warmth and community.