January 27, 2017
International Festival set at SIU
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Southern Illinois University Carbondale, which has welcomed students from around the world since 1947, will celebrate its students and their diversity during International Festival 2017.
“Unity in Diversity” is the theme of this year’s celebration. SIU is home to students from more than 100 nations and many will join together to carry their countries’ flags during the International Parade of Flags at 10 a.m. on Feb. 6. Some of the participating students will wear traditional homeland attire as they parade from Woody Hall to the Student Center’s International Lounge. There, Interim Chancellor Brad Colwell will sign the International Festival proclamation and give the official welcome at 10:30 a.m.
The ever-popular International Food Fair gives participants the chance to sample cuisine from around the world. The fair is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 8 in the Student Center Ballrooms. The menu will feature a wide variety of foods and drinks prepared by students from many countries. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Tickets are just 50 cents each and diners can purchase items ala carte or as complete meals with the number of tickets required varying. Beat the crowd and buy food fair tickets in advance from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays Feb. 1-7 at the Student Center Business Office windows, located on the second floor. Tickets will also be sold in advance from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 6-7 near the north escalators on the first floor of the Student Center. Tickets will be available at the door as well.
The Cultural Show at 7 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Student Center Ballrooms wraps up the festival. SIU students from across the globe will spotlight their countries and cultures through performances of song, dance, short plays, martial arts demonstrations and various other acts. The family friendly show is free and open to the public.
Sponsors of the 2017 International Festival include the Student Center, International Student Council, First Mid-Illinois Bank and Trust, Roland C. and Betty J. Person, Bob Hall and friends, Sound Core Music and Video and the International Friends Club.
You can find additional information, including the menu for the International Food Fair, at www.studentcenter.siu.edu/internationalfest. Or, for additional information, call 618/453-5714.