Catch a glimpse into other cultures and celebrate international cultural diversity as Tech hosts its annual Window on the World Festival and Symposium. This years’ symposium is scheduled for 10:10 a.m. today in the RUCMultipurpose Room and will focus on the subject of development issues in West Africa.
The festival, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow on every floor of the RUC.
“Window on the World is an international festival which celebrates cultural diversity and global harmony,” said Festival Coordinator Katie Kumar. “We invite and encourage all participants to share in learning and caring about our Earth and its people.”
This year’s entertainment schedule features a myriad of music, dance and cultural exhibits, most of which are completely interactive.
The Multipurpose Room stage offers many acts throughout the day including Appalachian Clogging at 10 a.m., Arabic Fusion at 10:45 a.m., Irish Step Dances at noon, The Danny Salazar Band at 3 p.m., and many more.
Even more musical acts will transpire on the Tech Pride Stage including a Drum Circle at 10:30 a.m., Didgeridoo crafting and playing at 1 p.m., Celtic Music at 3:45 p.m., Greek Dances at 4:30 p.m., and many more throughout the day.
Along with musical acts on the two main stages, WOW also features strolling musicians including Chinese Lions, German Accordion Music, Scottish Bagpipes, and Trio Vendeval.
Activities overflow from the RUC onto South Patio where Psi Chi will host a Wii Carnival, and Phi Alpha Theta will host their bi-annual book sale.
WOW does not limit the exploration of cultural diversity to just the ears, however. Like years past, WOW offers the opportunity to sample culinary delights from every corner of the world.
Returning favorites include Greek gyros, Polish perogies, French strawberry crepes, Indian chicken curry, Bosnian dishes, Filipino cuisine, and many more.
WOW will also introduce new vendors this year including Little Jimmy’s Italian Ice, an outdoor Latino cart, Mexican food, and Columbian tamales, empanadas, and arroz con pollo.
“Everyone looks forward to Window on the World each year, but many come to the festival for the food alone,” said Kumar. “It’s like a family reunion among all the vendors.”
WOW encourages people of all ages to attend and offers many activities for families with children including an interactive simulated rainforest on the third floor of the RUC and crafts in the Alumni Room.
Promoting cultural awareness and learning, WOW invites all attendees to participate in the Amazing Race, a contest of collecting clues throughout the festival to win prizes.
WOW is funded primarily by Center Stage and sponsored by the Globalization Committee of the College of Business.
