For the 37th year, UNC Charlotte’s International Festival will enable the campus and greater Charlotte community the chance to sample cultural traditions and fabulous foods from around the world. This year’s International Festival (IFest) will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Barnhardt Student Activity Center.
As UNC Charlotte’s longest-running cultural event, IFest attracts thousands to the campus for a full sensory experience - the sights, sounds and tastes of more than 50 countries and cultures.
"The original purpose of the International Festival was to provide a public venue in which to celebrate the cultural diversity represented by members of the University and Charlotte international community. The growth of the festival’s presence over the years is indicative of the rich, ethnic diversity that is present today. And so we continue to celebrate," said Marian Beane, chair of the International Festival's planning committee.
Visitors should plan to spend several hours, or the entire day, wandering through tents of brightly colored displays, conversing with participants representing their countries and cultures, tasting authentic cuisine from around the world, and soaking up the atmosphere of song, dance and story.
In addition to the hallmark elements, this year's festival will include a new feature - an international games area for attendees of all ages to participate in and learn about the cultural significance of various games. Participants can learn the rules of bocce, play a game of life-sized chess or join in a soccer match.
The Office of International Programs, Cone University Center, recreational facilities management and the Student Union cosponsor IFest, with support from Baxter Design Co., Advent Lutheran Church, Arts and Science Council, Chartwells, the Division for Business Affairs and Student Activities Office.
Admission and parking are free; the International Festival will be held rain or shine. More information is available online or call 704-687-7781.