The University of Utah campus will celebrate its rich cultural community on Wednesday, Aug. 27, with the inaugural Festival of Cultures, a day-long event themed “Rooted & Rising: Many Roots, One U!”
Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to the Union from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of connection, celebration and learning across cultures. The event is intended to honor the individual and collective cultural heritages at the U while highlighting the shared sense of community that binds everyone on campus together.
“This year marks the very first Festival of Cultures hosted by the Center for Community & Cultural Engagement,” said LeiLoni Allan-McLaughlin, director of the Center for Community & Cultural Engagement (CCE). “Our hope is to make this celebration a lasting tradition at the University of Utah, one that highlights the beautiful cultures and communities each student brings to campus. We hope everyone discovers something meaningful to enjoy!”
Planned events include a wide range of dance performances, art, music and a DJ, as well as workshops, resources and cultural displays.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., three food trucks—Chimichurri Grill, Kafe Mamai and Sergio’s Pizza—will be serving flavors from across the globe on the patio walkway.
As part of the Festival of Cultures, the annual I Am U Thriving visual storytelling campaign will also take place in the Union Ballroom East from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. No registration is necessary, and students can drop in throughout the afternoon.
Additionally, a cultural workshop featuring discussion circles where attendees can ask questions about culture, identity and tradition and participate in a portfolio workshop entitled, “My Name, My Story, My Culture, My Community” will also take place.
The festival provides a gathering space for both education and connection through the theme “Many Roots, One U.” It honors the histories and traditions that bond communities together while recognizing how those roots fuel progress and transformation in the broader world.
“We chose the theme ‘Many Roots, One U’ to reflect the diverse backgrounds, experiences and knowledge represented here, while also recognizing the shared commitment to education that unites us all,” said Allan-McLaughlin. “Our differences make our campus stronger, and together, we create a richer, more connected community.”
The Center for Community & Cultural Engagement hopes that the Festival of Cultures will reflect the U’s evolving identity and dedication to cultural understanding.
“I truly love culture and the communities that radiate its beauty. Culture is everywhere; it’s our beliefs, traditions, delicious foods, language, aspirations, music and dance. It is deeply connected to our sense of well-being and belonging,” said Allan-McLaughlin. “At CCE, we are committed to creating an inviting community where every student feels seen, heard and valued. The Festival of Cultures is just the beginning of this journey, and we’re so excited to celebrate, educate and learn together in community with you all!”