Saturday’s International Fiesta brings over 60 groups to MSU Drill Field with global food, entertainment

Contact: Harriet Laird

STARKVILLE, Miss.—It’s time for the 34th International Fiesta at Mississippi State and organizers are putting new and final touches on the university’s signature global celebration set for this Saturday [April 11].

Free and open to all, International Fiesta is primed to bring global community and connection to the forefront of the day’s festivities with the spirited parade of flags, culinary creations from around the world and colorful, cultural entertainment. The day kicks off at 11 a.m. on MSU’s historic Drill Field.

“This year, more than 60 student organizations, campus partners and community groups are at the center of making International Fiesta a success,” said Karolina Kastsiuchenka, program coordinator for MSU’s Center for Student Activities. “This spring event at the university has been around for more than three decades, and it continues to grow each year because of the amazing collaboration and cooperation among the many groups that are excited to celebrate their cultures and traditions.”

For the first time, fiesta-goers can find four check-in stations located throughout the area where wristbands will be available to help estimate attendance numbers, along with T-shirts and tote bags for cash purchase.

Also new this year is the Passport to Fiesta Quest in which participants of all ages can complete challenges and win prizes in the game area. In addition, attendees will want to visit the new photo booths to capture images with friends and family.

The day’s overall schedule is:

—10:45 a.m. – Parade of Flags lineup at Allen Hall; Anyone can join the ceremonial procession and there is no sign-up or experience required

—11:00 a.m. – Parade of Flags and official opening ceremony

—11:20 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. – Main stage performances; cultural booths, games and activities area and inflatables are open

—2:45 p.m. – International fashion show, and food and display competition winners announced

In addition to MSU’s Center for Student Activities, the World Neighbors Association of Starkville is an annual event host.

More information is available by emailing Kastsiuchenka at k.kastsiuchenka@msstate.edu or Kylie Forrester, center director, at kylie.forrester@msstate.edu.

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