Celebrate Fairfield’s remarkably diverse community with the return of the World FairField International Festival on Sunday, November 16, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., at the MIU Field House. The event is cosponsored by Maharishi International University, which has students from over 70 countries, and Maharishi School, with students from more than 30 countries. Families are welcome to attend, and admission is free.
Many students will have educational exhibits at the festival highlighting their home countries. “Our cultural background is such an important part of who we are,” says Maharishi School student Antariksha, from India, “but even in an international school, we sometimes don’t fully express that. This festival gives us a special chance to present ourselves fully, authentically.”
Fellow student Phuong, from Vietnam, who’s lived in Fairfield for four years, echoes that sentiment. “It gives me the chance to share the warmth and tradition of Vietnamese culture with people from around the world,” he says.
Vendors will present delicious traditional cuisines from around the world, ranging from Ethiopian to Mexican. Continuing the international theme, the afternoon’s entertainment will include world music from local band Baraka, Fonziba’s African drummers, and traditional and Bollywood dance from India.
Kostia, a 10th grader at Maharishi School, looks forward to sharing the traditions, food, and stories of his Ukrainian culture with the Fairfield community. “I love seeing people’s curiosity when they discover something new and interesting about my country—it makes me proud and grateful to be a part of this diverse and welcoming community!”
International community members from Fairfield are invited to share their cultural pride at the festival. To participate—and qualify for cash awards for the most creative and colorful exhibits—contact WorldFairField@MaharishiSchool.org. Food vendors and international performers are also welcome.
“Being in an international community is an exciting experience,” says Maharishi School student Sangay, from Bhutan, “because you get to learn about different cultures that you were not previously exposed to. And it is a wonderful opportunity to present one’s country’s unique identity and make it known on an international scale.”