April 1, 2024
Culture And Cuisine Abound Through Collaborative Effort at Ferris State’s International Festival of Cultures April 7
Students affiliated with and supporting Ferris State University’s Office of International Education are readying dozens of entertainments and epicurean delights for the 34th Annual International Festival of Cultures.
The event is planned for Sunday, April 7, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the ballrooms of the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive.
Director Tara Braun said the committee organizing the event made a modest alteration to the event’s fee structure, as employees and members of the public attending will see a $1 charge for tickets to purchase dishes at the festival.
Braun said students will be charged 50 cents for tickets so they can easily enjoy tastes from other countries and cultures.
“A majority of our tables will have some sort of cuisine to offer our guests, as we understand the importance of these offerings for many who attend,” she said.
Coco Zheng is from China and is a student in Ferris State’s College of Pharmacy. She is set to offer Xi Hong Shi Chao Dan, a tomato and egg dish, and has been a presenter at the festival for several years.
“It was a bit of an undertaking the first time I got involved, but with each year preparation becomes a little easier and I enjoy taking part very much,” Zheng said. “Whether it involves making and serving a dish, or being part of a traditional performance, I am happy to promote understanding in this fashion. I am proud to contribute and know getting involved each year has helped me build my skill as a communicator and leader.”
Kelly Tran of Vietnam is a Digital Animation and Game Design student who is also a veteran presenter at the festival. Having danced in a student group previously, Tran will blend beef and vegetables like cilantro and beans in a beef broth for the popular Pho soup dish.
“It does take some skill to make Pho properly,” Tran said. “We will be scaling up our recipe to have plenty for our guests and our team is confident we can do that very well.”
Braun said the festival backdrop includes a variety of performances, as students dance and play instruments known in their heritage.
“Since this is an Olympic year, we will have an opening ceremony to make note of that and set a theme for this festival,” Braun said. “We will also contract with a local henna artist, as that remains a popular facet of our offerings. We have a great space to offer an enjoyable variety of world music, wonderful tastes, and the considerable talents of our students. We hope all those interested make plans to join us that afternoon.”
Those requiring assistance to attend the International Festival of Cultures are asked to contact the Office of International Education at least 72 hours in advance by email or call to (231) 591-2450.