Abby Osei and Gloria Agyapong serving jollof rice and chicken at the Ghana food table. Photo by Faith Marie Small
Photo Story: Culturefest 2024
By Faith Marie Small on November 8, 2024
An ofrenda, or altar, is a deeply meaningful part of Día de los Muertos celebrations, honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed by offering their favorite foods, personal mementos and symbolic items to welcome their spirits back for a brief reunion. The custom of setting up ofrendas to honor those who have passed traces back to Pre-Hispanic times. These altars are assembled in the days before November 1st and 2nd, dates when it is believed that the spirits of the deceased return to reunite with family and friends. Description: A vibrant ofrenda created by CALSA, the Caribbean and Latino Student Alliance, a cultural student club on campus.
Country flags carry profound historical and cultural importance as symbols of national identity, unity, and pride, reflecting a nation's values, history, and shared heritage. Displaying these flags together at Culturefest fostered a powerful sense of collective pride and unity from our national and international communities here in Orono, Old Town, and Bangor, creating a shared celebration of diversity for all participants. Description: Description: Flags from various countries hang in a line from the indoor track railing, overlooking the bustling Culturefest event below.
For Ecuadorians, wearing masks in festivals symbolizes a connection to ancestral traditions and is often associated with beliefs in transformation, protection, and the embodiment of spirits or historical figures, allowing participants to honor cultural heritage and convey communal stories. Description: Anthony Flores in his Ecuadorian traditional attire and mask.
Some of Puerto Rico's most popular foods include mofongo, made from mashed plantains with garlic and pork cracklings; arroz con gandules, a savory rice dish with pigeon peas; and lechón, slow-roasted pork, each showcasing the island’s rich blend of Spanish, African, and Taíno culinary influences. Description: Felix Salazar, Brenda Santiago, and Jon Guzmán serving home cooked food for Puerto Rico’s table.
Enhancing the lively atmosphere filled with people chatting in various languages, laughing and connecting, a live brass band played music in the background, adding an energetic rhythm to the gathering. Description: Brass band playing live music at Culturefest
Here, we see Jiyeon Park and Yongjoon Choi serving food at the South Korean table. South Korean food is a flavorful blend of spicy, savory, and tangy elements, featuring dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi that emphasize fresh ingredients, fermented flavors, and vibrant side dishes. Description: Park and Choi serving food at the South Korean table.
The food court buzzes with people chatting, eating, and taking a culinary journey "around the world" as they visit tables representing various countries.
A fun fact about Ghanaian food is that it often features a unique blend of indigenous and spicy flavors, with dishes like fufu (a dough-like food made from cassava or yams) traditionally eaten by hand, symbolizing a communal dining experience that brings people together. Description: Servers at Ghana’s food table making a plate of food.
In Ghana, chicken is often marinated in a blend of spices like ginger, garlic, and chili, then grilled or stewed to create flavorful dishes such as "kyinkyinga" (chicken kebabs) or rich stews, showcasing the country’s love for bold, aromatic flavors. Description: Food from Ghana’s food table.
Jollof rice from Ghana is a beloved, flavorful dish made with rice cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, often spiced with peppers, onions and local seasonings, symbolizing the vibrant and communal nature of West African cuisine. At Ghana’s table, one could get a whole plate of all their food for $15. Description: Jollof rice and chicken from the Ghana food table.
Among the various foods offered at the food table for the South Asian Association of Maine was lemon rice, peanut chaat and other desserts. Peanut chaat is a popular Indian snack made with roasted or boiled peanuts mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, fresh coriander and seasoned with spices like chaat masala, cumin, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a crunchy, tangy, and spicy treat that’s enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer, known for its refreshing flavors and variety of textures. Description: Sathvik Peddmalla, Priyan Roy, Mariyam Khan and Lena Biju serving food for the South Asian Association of Maine.
Often handcrafted by skilled artisans, these wooden dolls are more than decorative items; they represent cultural stories, local deities and historical figures, connecting generations through their intricate detailing and vibrant colors. In regions like Karnataka, India, for example, traditional wooden dolls, known as "Channapatna toys," are crafted using centuries-old techniques, embodying regional pride and craftsmanship passed down through families. Additionally, in states like Rajasthan, India, wooden dolls and puppets are integral to folk performances, such as "Kathputli" puppet shows, which recount historical and mythological tales, reinforcing cultural identity and preserving oral traditions. Description: Two wooden dolls and various handcrafted items displayed for sale at the Indian craft table.
In Chinese culture, the dragon symbolizes power, strength, good luck, and protection, often viewed as a benevolent force that brings prosperity and harmony. Giant dragon puppets, especially featured in festivals like Lunar New Year, embody these qualities and are used in celebratory dances to ward off evil spirits, invite good fortune and foster community unity. The animated movement of the dragon, with many people working together to make it come to life, reflects collective energy and the communal spirit, honoring this cultural symbol and its positive influence. Description: Children carrying a giant Chinese paper dragon as they weave through the lively Culturefest event.
Many attendees proudly wore the traditional clothing of their home countries, creating a stunning mosaic of cultural attire rich in vibrant patterns, colors and deep cultural significance. Description: Photo of Adam Elkadi, Ibby Conteh and Basel Alsarraf at Culturefest.
