Culturefest set for 21st celebration at UMaine

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Seventy-seven nations are represented by students at the University of Maine. On Saturday, these students will share their cultures and traditions.

The 21st annual Culturefest will feature singing, dancing, food, games and exhibits from more than 50 countries. The event is sponsored by the Office of International Programs and the International Students Association.

“It’s a chance for them to showcase home,” said Karen Boucias, director of International Programs, of the international student participation at Culturefest.

Along with videos and slideshows, the exhibits will display clothing, jewelery, currency and artifacts from around the world. Attendees will have the chance to ask international students about the culture and history of their home country.

“I think that people are interested in the differences. Students can ask what it is like to study in a different education system or what it’s like to grow up in a different country,” Boucias said.

Festival-goers can learn about games and sports not typically played in the U.S. One of these games is cricket, which originated in England.

“We’ll let them throw the ball and play parts of the game,” said Sangam Lama, a computer science and math student. Lama is from Nepal and is the president of the International Student Association.

The food section will feature a variety of dishes from different cultures. This year there will be a competition for best traditional dessert. Members of the Culturefest committee cite the food court as being a favorite among students.

“Some people will bring $50 and say that they want to try food from ten different places. I’ve done it myself,” Lama said.

Students will also have a chance to enjoy traditional music and dancing.

“I love the dancing. It’s top- notch. All of the acts are,” said Arletta Hayes, a senior anthropology student with a minor in dance.

Hayes will perform reggaeton, a Carribean and Latin-style dancing. She is not an international student but identfies herself as Haitian, Hispanic and Native American. She feels Culturefest is a great way for her to embrace her heritage.

“My dad always said that I’m a lot of things and I should be able to appreciate every bit of it,” Hayes said.

Boucias said Culturefest is a great opportunity for students to learn about their heritage.

“Maybe you have relatives from there. Maybe you’re thinking about going there. There’s great educational opportunity,” Boucias said.

Culturefest is an opportunity for students interested in world traditions, but Lama said it is most important for students to have fun.

“There are so many cultures and so many traditions, but entertainment is a big aspect of it too,” Lama said.

Culturefest 2008 will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 in Memorial Gym Field House between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 6th, 2008, 12:00 am. You can follow any responses to this article through the RSS feed.