The Beaux Arts Ballroom at Bemidji State University’s Hobson Memorial Union was filled with music, laughter, and the aroma of spices from around the world on April 6, as the University hosted its 51st annual Festival of Nations.
The long-running event, organized by BSU’s International Student Organization (ISO), brought together students, scholars and community members for a vibrant celebration of global cultures through food, music, art and conversation.
More than 30 traditional dishes representing five continents were served and shared among attendees, each plate a reflection of home, heritage, and hospitality. For many, the festival was a chance to reconnect with familiar flavors or try something new—served up by the people who call those cultures their own. International students and visiting scholars spent weeks gathering ingredients, practicing performances, and perfecting their recipes.
Among those who contributed were six visiting scholars from Jishou University and Huaihua University in Hunan, China: He Zhimin, Shang Zhaokui, Tan Yi, Guo Jianfei, Feng Tao, and Li Wenjia. Together, they formed a culinary team led by Head Chef He Zhimin, who often cooks for students during field study trips in China. The team prepared a trio of traditional Chinese dishes: hand-shredded chicken, braised pork belly, and egg-wrapped pork rolls. The latter, HE shared, was a childhood favorite, reserved for special occasions. Now, he prepares it to bring back the tastes and memories of home. These dishes was some of the crowd favorites. Within moments of being set on the Asian exhibition table, they were surrounded by eager festival-goers and swiftly emptied.
In addition to food, the festival offered interactive exhibits including henna drawing, face painting, and traditional Chinese calligraphy bookmarks and lacquer fan crafts. These hands-on activities gave attendees a chance to experience the artistry behind many cultural traditions. The International Program Center also hosted a table at the event, showcasing the many education abroad opportunities available to BSU students and encouraging cross-cultural exploration beyond the classroom.
The entertainment lineup featured international music, dance, and live performances. ISO president Juliana Nixon and her group wowed the crowd with their high-energy dances. Fellow ISO officer Faith Adedeji performed with her band, “Just in Time,” delivering heartfelt vocals. The Chinese scholars showcased traditional Chinese flute and erhu (a two-stringed instrument), as well as a yoga inside flow, and a cosplay-style performance blending Chinese opera with a modern video game character. Each act was met with warm applause, reflecting the audience’s appreciation for the rich diversity on display.
“The participation of our Chinese scholars not only added authentic flavors to the event but also helped strengthen cultural exchange and understanding,” Jo Li, Assistant Director of International Program Center shared. “Behind headlines of trade war and political conflict, there are people—warm, creative, and generous people—who share love through food and art.”
The Festival of Nations continues to be one of Bemidji State’s most cherished traditions, serving as a reminder that cultural exchange fosters connection, empathy, and friendship.