The Global Education Office (GEO) at the University of New Mexico has announced the date for its annual International Festival. Scheduled for April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cornell Mall, the event promises to showcase the diverse cultures within the university's international community.
"Each year, GEO collaborates with international students, ethnic food vendors, and local performers to showcase different facets of our global community. It's a joyous occasion where our international students share a piece of their home culture with the wider campus. I encourage everyone to attend and experience the richness of diversity at UNM,” said Executive Director of the Global Education Office Nicole Tami.
Originally part of International Education Week, the festival became a standalone event in April 2005 due to its popularity. The 2023 festival saw a significant increase in attendance and participation, indicating its growing success.
With over 1,300 international students and scholars from 96 countries, GEO is excited to highlight the cross-cultural awareness of the global community, especially in anticipation of the upcoming 60th/Diamond anniversary commemoration.
Fourteen student clubs will participate in the event, selling items to raise money for their clubs. The festival is supported by three UNM departments and 20 outside artisan and food vendors, providing a wide array of cultural experiences for attendees.
Leading up to the festival, GEO will host Culture Nights, including Nepali Night on April 7 and a Holi Festival celebration on April 14, offering the community opportunities to engage in cultural celebrations.
Admission to the International Festival is free and open to the public, welcoming everyone to come and enjoy the diverse array of cultural displays, performances, and cuisines.