UMaine Students from 76 Countries Showcasing Tradition at Culturefest 2005
Contact: Sarah Joughin, 581-3423; George Manlove, 581-3756
ORONO — The 2005 edition of Culturefest, the University of Maine’s annual celebration of international and cultural diversity, is set for Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the UMaine Field House.
Culturefest activities are designed to provide the community with opportunities to learn about and enjoy cultures from many of the 76 different countries represented by UMaine’s student body.
The day includes cultural exhibits with posters, maps, videos, music, art, clothing, games and an international food court where students sell homemade ethnic food. Students from a variety of countries will answer questions about their cultures and traditions.
Visitors also can expect to see a style show featuring students modeling traditional clothing, a talent show including performances of song, dance and various other demonstrations, and even a children’s exhibit with activities. Cultures from Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas will be represented.
“This is the biggest international event on campus,” says organizer Sarah Joughin of the UMaine Office of International Programs and National Student Exchange. “So often we only hear about countries because of disaster… such as when a tsunami or earthquake hits or in times of famine and war. Culturefest is a great way to learn about the rich cultural traditions behind the faces we see on the news.”
Joughin expects more than 1,000 visitors will again come from as far away as central and eastern Maine and beyond.
“As we become a more global society, the public is realizing more and more the need to learn about cultural differences,” she says. “This is a unique and rare opportunity to travel around the world in a single day.”
The event is free and open to the public. For more information about the 17th annual Culturefest, contact the UMaine Office of International Programs at (207) 581-2905 or visit www.umaine.edu/international.