The Alerus Center is opening their doors to host the 64th annual Feast of Nations event on Mar. 21. This event entails a night of new experiences, international food and music, as well as cultural education and celebration.
This event is a tradition here at UND and began in 1961 and with a small group of people sharing a dinner of their cultural foods. This event has now grown to be one of the largest multicultural events in the North Dakota region.
The event begins at 5 p.m. with a red carpet where guests can show off and celebrate their formal or cultural dresswear from around the world and take photos. Guests are encouraged to wear traditional clothing to representtheir heritage or formal evening ware.
The sharing of different international and cultural meals and food is a highlight of this event to many. The carefully curated four-course meal has each course representing different regions of the world and allowing guests to experience tastes of a variety of cultures.
The appetizer is samoa sapa sui that originates from somoan culture, followed by a Kamara Spinach salad representing New Zealand food culture. The entree options include either a Pacific Northwestern inspired North Pacific salmon cake with chili citrus remoulade or a bean, sweet potato and garlic stew representing West African culture. The final course of dessert inspired by Hawaiian American food culture and entails a pineapple upside-down cake.
Throughout the night, guests will enjoy live cultural performances featuring music, dance, and artistic expressions from a variety of countries and regions. Performers take the stage and share pieces of their heritage, while also educating and entertaining guests.
Cultural education and sharing traditions are a key part of this event. Guests are able to visit a variety of cultural tables to educate themselves and make the most of this event. By visiting each table guests also are given the chance to win a pair of unlimited entry passes to Folklorama, the world’s largest multicultural festival hosted in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Beyond the food and festivities, Feast of Nations also puts an emphasis on connection. Community leaders, students, families and professionals are able to gather, network, build relationships, and celebrate the diverse cultures within the Grand Forks community. This event serves as a welcoming environment where stories are shared, traditions are honored, and connections are formed.
Attending this event allows people to get a taste of the world’s culture through music, dance, performances, and food. This event is perfect for everyone interested in learning more about culture and diversity and sharing a bit of their own. Get your tickets for this event today through instructions on their website or by visiting the Chester Fritz Preforming Arts Center.
Sonya Skar is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].
