International Festival


Pictures from the Festival

Observations of the International Festival


Ramona Coleman

The International Festival, sponsored by Sociology 499/599 with the support of the General Education Fund, held on Saturday November 15th proved to be an event worth attending. Hundreds of cultural enthusiasts gathered in TTU's muli-purpose room to celebrate as well as learn about diverse cultures.

The elaborate colorful decor of reds, yellows, greens, and browns set the mood for an colorful day filled with food, music, art, and a variety of culture exhibits. Songs and shouts from Native American Dancers joyously sounded as outside participants joined in the dancers tribunal dances. The performances which consisted of array of talent—from storytellers to belly Songs and shouts from Native American Dancers joyously sounded as outside participants joined in the dancers tribunal dances. The performances which consisted of array of talent—from storytellers to belly dancers. Another exceptional highlight at the festival was the hands-on craft booth with gave children as well as adults a fun opportunity to make creative crafts which symbolized various aspects of the festival. Some of the crafts made, free of charge like the festival itself, were ornate hats, melodious rain makers, brilliant origamis and many other crafts.

Students like Hector Gabi and Joe Colquitt had the opportunity to share with others a little of their culture heritage. Through a brief historical display, Hector enlightened the public to his native country, Philippines. Through his original, bold art, Joe Colquitt showed dramatic works of African-American life.

In addition to these students and numerous student volunteers who helped make the festival a success, TTU's faculty members and members of the community provided unique exhibits at which many items were purchased by festival attendees. In addition to these students and numerous student volunteers who helped make the festival a success, TTU's faculty members and members of the community provided unique exhibits at which many items were purchased by festival attendees. Spanish speaking, French, German, Azores, and Portugal were well represented by these professors. Not only did festival attendees leave with exquisite items, but they also left with full stomachs since many indulged in the culinary delights which consisted of foods from around the world. From Caribbean meatballs to baklava, there was something sure to please everyone's tastes. Although people left with full stomachs and full shopping bags, what many people left with was hearts full of joy and celebration as they made new friends, learned of diverse cultures, and traveled to exotic destinations without having to pay for an expensive airline ticket.


For more information E-Mail:
Dr. Ada Haynes
Tennessee Technology University Box: 5052
Cookeville, TN 38505
Phone: (615) 372-3776
Office: Daniels Hall Rm:231