Photo Provided MARIETTA – The Multicultural Festival at Marietta College, featuring different international cultures, cuisine and entertainment, will be held from 4-7 p.m. Saturday at The Gathering Place on Seventh Street. The festival is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the Multicultural Club, the Department of Student Connections and Outreach and the Student Government Association at the college.

MARIETTA – The annual Multicultural Festival at Marietta College will be held from 4-7 p.m. Saturday at The Gathering Place on Seventh Street.

The festival, free and open to the public, is sponsored and organized by the Multicultural Club, the Department of Student Connections and Outreach and the Student Government Association.

Among the college’s most popular events drawing hundreds of people from the campus and community, the festival highlights diversity and fosters cross-cultural connection through international cuisine, live performances and traditions from more than 20 countries.

“The Multicultural Festival is not only one of the most exciting events at Marietta College, but also a great opportunity to connect with cultures from around the world,” Hinata Sotsuda, class of 2025, a member of the Multicultural Club, said. “In past celebrations, countless community members have learned about cultures they had never experienced before. As a member of the Multicultural Club, I hope everyone enjoys an even bigger celebration this year.”

The festival features traditional international dishes prepared by students, faculty, staff and residents of the community representing cultures from around the world. Guests are encouraged to sample cuisines while experiencing the traditions and stories behind the food.

Performers in both returning and new acts are scheduled throughout the festival. An African drum and dance group will perform and student performer Kanae Yoshida, class of 2026, will present a traditional Japanese dance.

Raffles will be held for chances to win prize baskets with proceeds supporting the festival including for groceries, performers and event supplies.

“The Marietta College Multicultural Festival is a signature event that celebrates the richness of our diverse campus and surrounding communities,” Tony Mayle, director of Student Connections and Outreach and associate dean of students, said. “By bringing together cultural performances, traditions, and student leadership, the festival reflects our ongoing commitment to global learning and meaningful community engagement.”

The Multicultural Club at Marietta College celebrates cultural diversity by hosting events that bring together people of different backgrounds and fosters an inclusive environment, promotes cross-cultural understanding and enriches the college experience for all through educational programming.

Residents interested in sharing their culture can contact Mayle at aam006@marietta.edu. To learn more about the festival, go to marietta.edu/multicultural-festival.