The Cultural Show, set for Feb. 13, is a popular free event and all are welcome. Photo by Amihere Benson
February 04, 2026
Join in SIU’s 2026 International Festival, global cultural celebration
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate its diversity, inclusiveness and the many cultures the university and surrounding area embrace during the 2026 International Festival, set for Feb. 9-13.
The theme of the weeklong festival, which traces its roots back more than 6 years, is “Threads of the World-Weaving Cultures Together.” People often come from miles around to enjoy various activities, which are often led by students.
“International Festival Week is one of the most enduring traditions for our campus, sustained largely over the decades through the leadership and dedication of our students,” said Mohammed Aleemuddin, a master’s student in mechanical engineering from India who serves as president for the International Student Council. “It is a celebration created for our fellow students, university staff and the wider Carbondale community, and we invite everyone to join us in recognizing global cultures, shared values and the spirit of unity that defines SIU Carbondale.”
Everyone loves a parade
The festival kicks off with a most unique parade – the International Parade of Flags. The Feb. 9 event is both inspiring and beautiful as faculty and staff from around the world begin walking at 10 a.m. from Woody Hall, carrying flags from their countries. Many will be wearing native attire as well for this special processional, which concludes at the Student Center’s International Lounge.
There, an official proclamation and university welcome ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. Campus leaders and city officials will join in.
Expand your tastes
One of the community’s favorite and highly anticipated activities for the week is the International Food Fair. It’s a once-a-year opportunity to taste cuisine from around the world. The food fair begins at 11 a.m. Feb. 11 in the Student Center Ballrooms.
Students from around the globe will prepare and share tasty fare that is popular in their homelands.
Participating student organizations and groups include the African Students’ Union, Bangladesh Student Association, Indian Student Association, Fulbright Student Association, Nepalese Student Society, Sri Lankan Student Association, Pakistan Students’ Association, Latin American Student Association and the Multicultural Empowered Women Student Association (MEWSA).
The event is slated to run until 1 p.m., but some of the dishes often run out earlier, so organizers encourage visitors to arrive early to ensure the best selection of menu items.
Tickets are $1 each, and participants will submit one or more tickets to purchase food items. Tickets for the food fair go on sale Jan. 27 and can be purchased in advance near the north escalators near the University Bookstore at the Student Center from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on these dates:
- Jan. 26-30.
- Feb. 2-6.
- Feb. 9-10.
Note that there will not be advance ticket sales at the Student Center Business Office as in years past. Tickets can also be purchased at the food fair.
Follow the SIU Office of Student Engagement and the SIU International Student Council on Facebook and Instagram for updates, complete menus and more.
Check out SIU’s study abroad opportunities
SIU’s Study Abroad Fair is a comprehensive, one-stop option for people to learn about some of the university’s diverse study abroad programs. Everyone is welcome. It’s happening from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Student Center’s Corker Lounge.
Contact Brian Henry, study abroad director, at brian.henry@siu.edu with any questions.
All-new for 2026
Musical traditions from around the world will be the focus for a brand-new event this year. The Global Soundscape, from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 12, will take place in the Student Center’s Big Muddy Room. Those attending are asked to enter the building near the SIU Craft Shop on the lower level.
International music and karaoke performances reflecting the breadth of SIU’s cultural diversity promise an insightful and entertaining evening for all. There is no cost to attend.
Showcasing the world’s peoples
The International Festival wraps up with the Cultural Show, a popular entertainment showcase featuring SIU students from around the globe. Their performances of song, dance and more will highlight their diverse nations, cultures and backgrounds.
The show is at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 13 in the Student Center Ballrooms. It’s a free, family-friendly evening, and all are welcome.
The International Student Council, an SIU registered student organization, coordinates the International Festival with assistance from the Center for International Education, the Office of Student Engagement and the Student Center. Sponsors also include the Division of Student Affairs, Student Programming Council, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate and Professional Student Council, Office of the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, SIU Graduate School, University Communications and Marketing, the College of Engineering, Computing, Technology and Mathematics, First Mid Bank & Trust, Banterra Bank and Regions Bank.
To learn more, visit the Student Center website, email getinvolved@siu.edu or globalsalukis@siu.edu or call 618-453-5714.