Athens, Ga. – The University of Georgia Office of International Student Life will host the ninth annual International Street Festival, “Bringing the World to Athens,” on College Square in downtown Athens on Saturday, April 14, from noon to 5 p.m. Dozens of international student organizations and local community groups will sponsor informative and interactive cultural displays as well as musical and dance performances. All activities are free and open to the public.
Visitors will have an opportunity to collect “passport” stamps from each of the countries represented. Those who collect all available stamps will receive a ticket for a prize drawing. A children’s corner will allow young guests to color international paper dolls, create their own flags, craft African necklaces and headdresses, and to hear stories of children from around the world. Many door prizes and giveaways will be available from sponsoring businesses.
“The festival is a wonderful opportunity to create connections between international students and the Athens community and to help people learn a bit more about other cultures,” said Leigh Poole, ISL coordinator. “Each year typically 3,000 people attend and we’re hoping to top that number this year.”
ISL, a unit of the Department of Intercultural Affairs within UGA’s Division of Student Affairs, was formed in 1997 to support UGA’s goal of fostering a campus climate that appreciates the interdependent global society. It strives to create a welcoming environment by providing opportunities for the interaction of international students with U.S. students. Some of ISL’s programs and services include international orientation, advising for international student organizations, tax-preparation assistance, off-campus housing support, cross-cultural adjustment counseling and individual student advising.
For more information about the International Street Festival or ISL’s programs and services for international students, call 706/542-5867 or see www.uga.edu/isl.
