The name could not fit the event more: Cultural Outburst. The night is bursting with energy, various cultures coming together as one. 

“It’s a night where students get to share their cultures through performances, food, music, clothing — you name it,” junior Aster Conway-Reppert said. “People sing, dance, recite poetry, cook dishes from home, or set up booths with interactive activities. The energy is so genuine and celebratory. It’s not just about showcasing traditions — it’s about honoring the stories and people behind them and inviting the whole community to learn and celebrate together.” 

On Saturday night, April 26, in the dining hall nearly 100 students will be participating at the booths and in performances, representing more than 20 cultures. Hundreds more students will attend. The booths will have tri-fold boards with information about the cultures as well as descriptions of food served, including ingredients. This year more students than ever will provide entertainment.  

“We added a component that at least one student at every booth must participate in the fashion show, do a performance, give a presentation or demonstration,” said Molly Pond, the director of international student support. “So in addition to the food and displays at the booth, every culture will be contributing to the entertainment component of the evening.”  

Aster, Michael Liu, and junior Deron Lin are the emcees for the fashion show. 

“It is a really fun role,” Aster said. “I was an emcee last year, and I wanted to continue this year.” 

Part of what you might see at the fashion show, from students who have signed up and described what they will wear: a hanbok, the traditional attire of Korea, characterized by its simple design and bright colors; lehengas, which in Indian culture are typically worn for weddings and festivals; a mamian dress, a type of traditional Chinese formal outfit originated in the Song Dynasty; a caftan from Ghana, which blends comfort with elegance and is a symbol of cultural pride and status. 

Part of what you might also see and hear are Jewish songs, an Indian dance form called Kuchipudi, a show by the LC Step Dancers, and a song from sophomore Joy Smith, who chose “Move On Up” by Curtis Mayfield.  

“This song is culturally relevant because it speaks about working hard and persevering through hard times and keeping your head high no matter what,” Joy said. “Curtis Mayfield wrote many songs speaking about Black pride and class, but ‘Move On Up’ is such a happy and encouraging song.” 

When senior Izzy Heflin was asked how she would describe Cultural Outburst to someone who had never attended, she started with “First I’d say go — 100 percent — go. I’ve loved it. It is one of my favorite events of the year. It’s full of pride and emergence, good food and music, and the fashion show is always fun. I’d just say it has a lot of positive and uplifting energy.”