Every year in the month of February, the International Student Council (ISC), in collaboration with the SIU Student Center and our international RSOs, hosts the International Festival Week on the SIU campus. For the past 52 years, this event has presented an amazing opportunity for international students to share their culture and cultural heritage with the SIU and Carbondale communities. Each year, this event draws in a large crowd of SIU faculty, staff, American students, international students, and community leaders and members. The International Festival Week helps in fostering, promoting, and encouraging international exchange, learning, and community-building.
The Flag Parade is part of our opening ceremony of the International Festival Week every year. In addition, the International Food Fair and the Culture Show are two of the most anticipated events in the month of February at SIU.
Agenda of the International Festival 2025
This year’s theme for the festival is “Celebrating Traditions, Building Connections”, created by international students at SIU to emphasize diverse traditions and the unity in the work. During the first week of February 2025, take the chance to explore the intercultural richness of SIU and connect with different cultures represented by international students and their organizations.
On Monday, February 3rd, join the International Parade of Flags at 10 am. Participants carrying flags representing their countries will walk from the Center for International Education to the Student Center International Lounge. The parade is not only colorful and impressive but also an opportunity for some to showcase their native attire. Following the parade, the Proclamation and University Welcome will take place at the Student Center International Lounge at 10:30 am.
On Wednesday, February 5th, don’t miss the International Food Festival from 11 am to 1 pm at the Student Center Ballrooms. Taste dishes from regions such as Africa, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Latin America, Sri Lanka, Iran, and Pakistan prepared by international students and their organizations. Tickets for food can be purchased at the Student Center during specific times listed.
Monday, January 27 to Thursday January 30: 10am – 4:30pm
Friday, January 31: 10 am – 4pm
Monday, February 3: 11am – 3pm
Tuesday, February 4: 9am – 3:30pm
Wednesday, February 5, at the Student Center International Lounge: 11am-1pm
Be sure to get your tickets early as lines may form and food may run out quickly. Dish prices range from $1 to $5.
Join us on Friday, February 7th, for the International Cultural Show at 6:30 pm in the Student Center Ballrooms. International students will showcase their traditions through performances, traditional clothing, dances, music, and more. This event is free to the public.
For updates, follow our Instagram @ISCSIUC and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ISCSIUC. For more information, email global.salukis@siu.edu.
