Wartburg College’s International Club will offer a variety of events showcasing some of the many cultures represented on campus during its annual Culture Week celebration, May 5-10.

This year’s celebration, “Roots and Rhythms: The Sound of Cultures,” will culminate with the Culture Show on May 10, showcasing the talents, flags and fashion of Wartburg’s international students, who represent nearly 40 countries. The 7 p.m. show in Neumann Auditorium is open to the public for $10 and free for Wartburg students.

Other events throughout the week include:
• A kickoff celebration at 7 p.m. Monday, May 5, on the Campus Lawn.
• Art and music workshops highlighting mandala designs, afrobeats, henna and more at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, on the lower level of the Saemann Student Center.
• Cultural presentations in the Ubuntu Lounge at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 8.
• A Braai, a South African cookout, behind The Manors at 6 p.m. May 9. This event is sponsored by Entertainment ToKnight and Black Student Union.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn, engage and celebrate the diverse backgrounds that make our campus community so special. I hope everyone can feel empowered to come see that for themselves,” said Aleah Albers, International Club’s president.

Throughout the week meals representing different parts of the world will be served in Mensa, including Chinese-style wontons, vegetarian pulao, chili paneer, chicken shawarma, crispy corn and Ecuadorian potato soup.

“It’s an honor to celebrate the incredible diversity of our campus through the foods that bring us together. Each dish tells a story, and during Culture Week, we’re proud to help students share those stories with the entire community,” said Jami Dare, Wartburg’s executive chef. “Our hope is that every bite reminds us of home, connection and what it means to be united at Wartburg.”

The Mensa is open to the public 5-7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The dinner buffet is $6 for kids aged 5-12, $12 for 13 and older and free for children under 5. The menu is posted at www.wartburg.edu/dining.

“Culture Week is a time I feel extremely connected to my roots and excited to share and express my culture and traditions with others. We have planned so many incredible things this year, I can’t wait for everyone to witness how far we have come in creating a community that fosters diversity and inclusion,” said Alina Ahamed, International Club’s public relations officer.