Being in the gymnasium where North’s 2nd annual World Culture Fair was held instead of running the track was like taking a tour around the globe. With booths representing more than 20 countries and live performances showcasing global artistry, students got a pamphlet with questions to answer about the booths at the end of the performances.
The World Culture Fair aimed to showcase the diverse backgrounds of North’s student body by offering an interactive experience through educational booths, performances, and traditional displays. Countries and cultural groups, including Mexico, El Salvador, Puerto Rico, Nigeria, Ghana, Palestine, India, Pakistan, Iraq, Vietnam, the Philippines, Japan, Germany, Italy, Russia, the Republic of Buryatia, Belarus, Lithuania and Poland, were represented at booths filled with artifacts, posters, and traditional attire. The event also featured five live performances, highlighting the cultural richness through dance and song.
One of the highlights of the fair was the wide range of cultural exhibits. Each booth was carefully decorated to showcase the history, customs, and traditions of a specific country, with students sharing insights into their heritage.
“Everyone has done an amazing job to share their culture that they know and call home and will always be their own,” board member senior Thea Salcedo said. “We all were in this process together and I couldn’t be happier with how everyone took their part in it.”
The performances brought another layer of engagement, transforming the gym into a stage of global expression. The lineup included a Filipino dance, an Indian song, a Step Team performance, a Filipino song and Indian dances to wrap up the performances.
“I am so proud of the performances because most of the groups don’t have much performance experience,” Salcedo said. “To get up in front of a big crowd to show something that is so unfamiliar to the audience is nerve wrecking.”
The Filipino dance captivated the audience with its rhythmic footwork and planned costumes, paying homage to a traditional style that has been passed down for generations.
“Our biggest organizational challenge was getting everyone to come to meetings to work on their booths,” Salcedo said. “It is hard to manage since new people are always joining and some have extra curricular activities.”
The final performance, an array of Indian dances, ended the showcase on a high note with intricate footwork and vibrant movements. The routine reflected the deep cultural heritage of Indian classical and folk dance, mesmerizing the audience with its fluidity and expression.
“Dance is a universal language, and it’s amazing to see people from different backgrounds appreciate this tradition,” MC senior Hubert Stasik said. “It really brings a sense of connection and unity.”
Beyond the performances and booths, the event was a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness. Organizers and participants alike recognized the importance of having spaces that allow students to celebrate their heritage while learning about others.
“We want every student to feel seen and valued,” Stasik said. “Bringing together different cultures in one place helps us appreciate what makes each of us unique while also finding common ground.”
As this event came to a close, attendees left with a deeper understanding of the world around them and a renewed appreciation for the diversity within their own school. The World Culture Fair was more than just an event–it was a bridge between cultures, proving that despite differences in language, traditions, and backgrounds, the power of community and shared experiences can bring people together in remarkable ways.
