BIG RAPIDS — Ferris State University will host its 25th annual International Festival of Cultures on Sunday, April 14 in the Interdisciplinary Resource Center on the Big Rapids campus.
The event is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. and annually welcomes more than 1,000 attendees from Ferris and the Big Rapids community. This year’s festival features opportunities to learn more about 19 different countries and cultures.
“The goal of the International Festival of Cultures is to showcase the cultural diversity found at Ferris State University and in Big Rapids through food, entertainment, activities and exhibits,” said Elizabeth Matthews, international student advisor and immigration specialist. “Having the opportunity to sample foods from around the world, watch dancing and musical performances, and interact with international students makes this event particularly fun and engaging for the university.”
At the festival, Ferris international students perform dances, recite poetry, cook food with Dining Services and lead children’s activities such as henna tattoos and making dream catchers.
“The festival contributes to an overall campus environment that is welcoming to students from around the world. This, in turn, is attractive for students looking to study at a university that is activity seeking to internationalize its campus and community,” Matthews said.
The International Student Organization, Office of Multicultural Student Services, President’s Office, Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center, Dining Service and Physical Plant contribute to the International Festival of Cultures.
“We appreciate all of the support we are getting from the campus and community and can't wait to see it all come together,” Matthews said.