Culturefest

Each fall since the late 1980’s the Office of International Programs and the International Student Association have hosted a day-long celebration of cultures with country/culture exhibits, food court, children’s activities and live demonstrations, a talent show/cultural performances and a style show. This event has always been FREE and open to the public. The purpose of the event has always been to allow international students share their culture and have it celebrated by the University of Maine community along with the greater Orono community.

The in-person Culturefest usually has over 150 participants from approximately 35 countries.  Students and their families enjoyed sharing food, pictures, maps, cultural artifacts, music, and cultural traditions with attendees.

Most years we are happy to have at least 1500 people in attendance, including UMaine students, faculty and staff and numerous members of surrounding communities.  Many local teachers have incorporated Culturefest into their curriculum and use it as an opportunity for a school field trip. International students from College of the Atlantic, Husson University and Eastern Maine Community College also attended.  We have been happy to have volunteers from our sororities and fraternities and to have Culturefest as a Greek Week event.