EL PASO, Texas – The University of Texas at El Paso is celebrating International Education Week with flavor and flair by hosting the weeklong International Cultural Festival beginning Monday, Nov. 14.
The festival, in its second year, kicks off with the International Food Fair from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Centennial Plaza on the UTEP campus. The highly anticipated event is in its 33rd year. Fifteen student clubs and organizations will sell cuisines from around the world and compete for cash prizes, bragging rights and a traveling “big spoon” trophy. Attendees will be able to join in on the fun and vote for their favorite dishes. The winning organization will receive the fan favorite cash prize.
“By engaging with people from cultures other than our own, we are preparing our students to be globally conscious citizens who respect and celebrate diversity,” said Nicole Aguilar, director of UTEP’s Office of Student Life. “This event serves as the second largest fundraiser for these organizations. The greater El Paso community has always played a role at this event. We all come together to taste food and enjoy live entertainment, performances and more.”
The fair also will include live musical entertainment and special performances, including an international fashion show at noon.
Patrons can purchase food tickets on site with cash, credit or debit cards for $1 each. Advanced tickets are available for purchase at any University Ticket Center location. Commemorative cups and T-shirts also will be available for purchase.
All International Cultural Festival events are free and open to the public. Additional events throughout the week include:
International Bazaar and Live Entertainment
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Nov. 15- 18
UTEP Union Plaza
Lecture Series
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Nov. 14-18
Blumberg Auditorium at the UTEP Library, 1st floor
International Film Festival
5:30 – 8 p.m.
Nov. 14-18
UTEP Union Cinema, Union Building East, 1st floor
“This program supports UTEPs mission to create opportunities for the UTEP and greater community to gain awareness of the many cultures on campus and within our community,” Aguilar said.
For more information and a full schedule of events and activities, visit sa.utep.edu/osl.