27th annual Ethnic Arts Festival

Looking to explore the world without stepping off campus? The 27th annual Ethnic Arts Festival, sponsored by the Diversity Center, does just that. Held in the Center for Faith and Life March 13, the event celebrates world cultures with international display tables and activities, a world bazaar, ethnic cuisine and an international variety show.

The Ethnic Arts Festival has been a long-standing tradition at Luther College. Started as an educational and entertaining activity, the occasion began in the 80s with only a handful of international students. Since then, the program has blossomed to include presentations, programs and exhibits by international students from over 25 different countries.

Display tables and activities will be held in the CFL from 1-4 p.m. Each table will represent a country and be run by a knowledgeable student or faculty member who has lived or studied there and is ready to educate others about the culture.

“It’s a great time because it gives the international students a chance to showcase their countries,” Ethnic Arts Publicity Chair Rachel Miessler (‘13) said.

Adult and child-friendly booths equipped with culture kits with items from specific countries serve as a way to learn about other cultures.

Activities for children include getting “passports” to be stamped when touring different countries, a kid’s corner and storytelling. Some students will hold games and possibly dance workshops for all ages.

In addition to the international display tables, the world bazaar will also be held from 1-4 p.m. in the Qualley Lounge of the CFL. The bazaar, held twice a year at Christmas and the Festival, will include an array of imported handcrafts from cooperative worldwide enterprises.

Ethnic Cuisine, which will take place in Peace Dining Room from 4:30-7 p.m. includes dishes prepared by international students and dining staff. The theme for this year’s feast is “International Market.” To enjoy this out-of-the-ordinary dinner experience, tickets can be purchased at the Luther College Box Office for $2 for students with a board plan.

The final event of the day will be the Entertainment Showcase. Held free of charge in the CFL, the show will consist of music, international dance and fashion from around the globe.

“I’m really excited, even though it’s my last one,” four-year participant in the Ethnic Arts Festival and showcase performer Nana Kwapong (‘10) said. “It’s going to be really colorful.”

To prepare for the festival ahead of time, the event chairs will hold a promo night in the cafeteria on March 11, complete with decorations, t-shirt sales and buttons.

The Ethnic Arts Festival teaches everyone to respect and value cultures other than their own.