International Food Festival celebrates 40 years at UNK

Sunday’s International Food and Cultural Festival at UNK features food from 13 countries, as well as entertainment by international students. The event is from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Health and Sports Center.
Sunday’s International Food and Cultural Festival at UNK features food from 13 countries, as well as entertainment by international students. The event is from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Health and Sports Center.

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney has added reason to celebrate when it hosts this year’s Scott D. Morris International Food and Cultural Festival.

Started in 1977, the popular campus and community event is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

International students prepare and serve authentic dishes from their home countries and provide entertainment at the festival, which is from 4-7 p.m. Sunday (March 5) in the Health and Sports Center. It is free and open to the public.

The event features food from 13 countries: Japan, China, South Korea, Vietnam, Oman, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, France, Europe, Nepal, India, Saudi Arabia.

“Through this event, international students bring to you one of the fundamentals of culture, the sharing of food,” said International Student Association President Sho Takei of Japan. “As a host serving his guest, food is the act of love.

“The international community hopes to show our gratitude and love towards the Kearney community that has accepted us and taken care of us well.”

Attendees can visit cultural booths that feature games, activities, decorative pieces and information about each country. Entertainment includes 11 performances representing Mexico, China, South Korea, Japan and Europe.

“Students enjoy the opportunity to be ambassadors from their countries by sharing aspects of their culture with people who may have no other way of experiencing other country’s cultures,” said Bonnie Payne, international education outreach coordinator.

The event is sponsored by Scott Morris of Morris Press in Kearney, Pepsi Fund and International Student Services. It is organized and hosted by the International Student Association.

Featured International Dishes
Japan –
Yakitori, Edamame
China – Stir Fried Tomatoes and Eggs
South Korea – Bulgogi
Vietnam – Braised Pork and Eggs in Caramel
Oman – Chicken Biryani, Kanefeh
Chile – Pebre, Pulmay Curanto en Hoyo, Turron de Vino
Colombia – Arroz con Leche, Arepas con Pollo Desmechado
Mexico – La Cherrera Saland, Flan,
France – Crepes, Quiche Lorraine
Europe – Garlic Canape, Apple Strudel,
Nepal – Momo
India – Chicken Curry
Saudi Arabia – Beef Kefta, Chicken Shawarma

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