Food, flags and global flavors: SIU’s international festival returns with weeklong celebration
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate cultural diversity and global traditions during its 2026 International Festival, set for Feb. 9-13.
The weeklong event, themed “Threads of the World — Weaving Cultures Together,” traces its roots back more than 60 years and features student-led activities open to the campus and surrounding community.
“International Festival Week is one of the most enduring traditions for our campus, sustained largely over the decades through the leadership and dedication of our students,” said Mohammed Aleemuddin, president of the International Student Council. “It is a celebration created for our fellow students, university staff and the wider Carbondale community, and we invite everyone to join us in recognizing global cultures, shared values and the spirit of unity that defines SIU Carbondale.”
The festival begins Feb. 9 with the International Parade of Flags. Faculty and staff representing countries around the world will walk from Woody Hall at 10 a.m., carrying their national flags and wearing traditional attire.
The procession will conclude at the Student Center’s International Lounge, where an official proclamation and welcome ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m.
One of the festival’s most anticipated events, the International Food Fair, is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Student Center Ballrooms. Students will prepare and serve dishes representing their home countries. Participating groups include the African Students’ Union, Bangladesh Student Association, Indian Student Association, Fulbright Student Association, Nepalese Student Society, Sri Lankan Student Association, Pakistan Students’ Association, Latin American Student Association and the Multicultural Empowered Women Student Association.
Food fair tickets are $1 each and will be available for advance purchase beginning Jan. 27 at the Student Center near the University Bookstore escalators on select dates. Tickets will also be sold at the event.
The Study Abroad Fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Student Center’s Corker Lounge, offering information on international study opportunities.
New this year, Global Soundscape will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 12 in the Big Muddy Room, featuring international music and karaoke performances. Admission is free.
The festival concludes with the Cultural Show at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 13 in the Student Center Ballrooms. The free event will feature student performances highlighting diverse cultures from around the world.
The International Student Council coordinates the festival with support from campus departments and community sponsors. Additional information is available through the SIU Student Center.
