While many students would like to go away to another country with finals approaching fast, it is doubtful the opportunity will present itself. However, Mississippi State University’s annual International Fiesta provides the opportunity to visit and experience several countries without ever leaving campus.The event, sponsored by the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, has been held on the first Saturday in April for the past 18 years. The events will take place in the Junction from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be followed by a cricket game.
The fiesta begins with the showing of numerous flags, which represent the countries of MSU international students and alumni. Attendees can then walk from booth to booth sampling cuisine from various countries, viewing native fashion and listening to indigenous music. The fiesta will also feature dancing, a fashion show, games and unique items for sale. The event was originally sponsored by the World Neighbors Association.
It began when WNA publicity representative Armando de la Cruz and treasurer Ruth de la Cruz wanted to provide a venue for international students to interact and share their cultures with the community.
“There was a time when this was the only international event happening on campus,” Armando de la Cruz said.
WNA president Amy Harrison said the fiesta usually attracts about 500 participants and is memorable to students long after their time at MSU is up.
“It’s probably the most important international event on campus all year long,” she said. “We’ve had alumni who contact us and say one of their fondest memories is the fiesta.”
Shaz Akram, program coordinator for the diversity center, compared the fiesta to a carnival.
“It’s full of colors, culture and music,” she said. “There will be a catwalk sponsored by the fashion school, martial arts demonstrations and different dancing, like a Native American dance.”
Akram said a large amount of student organizations participate in the program, ranging from the ROTC and Student Association to the Anime Club, and Scholars Association.
She said some international students do not actively participate in culture-specific groups and the fiesta allows them to do so.
“To wear their clothes, cook their food and walk with pride holding their flag is something they are so proud of,” Akram said.
She said the fiesta is just as much about reaching out to American students as it is to international students.
“The point of all this is to showcase international culture at MSU and spread the culture among American students because most people are not privileged enough to travel or go to other countries,” she said. “This gives them a taste of the world right here on MSU’s campus.”
Armando de la Cruz said the festival has become a tradition that the community looks forward to every year and hopes it will continue to grow.