Michigan Technological University is transforming its longtime Parade of Nations tradition. Expanding the event beyond Dee Stadium to create a more community-focused celebration that increases interaction between international students and residents.
The university’s decision to refresh the event stems from conversations that began after Finlandia University closed and challenges arose with the traditional parade route. According to Christian Montesinos, director of international programs and services at Michigan Technological University, the changes will better engage families, the community and students.
“So that really is where a lot of the conversations really led towards how do we change this? How do we make this more engaging with the community? How do we get more families out, more kids out, all these sorts of things so that we really not only have something that tons of the community members can come and enjoy the food part of it, but also get that one-on-one time with the students and be able to talk to them and see them walking around and engage with them,” Montesinos said.
The reimagined Festival of Nations will maintain beloved traditions while expanding its reach. The event will continue to feature flags flown in both cities, the food festival and cultural performances inside Dee Stadium. While now stretching to the Portage Lake District Library.
“And then it would expand from the lake shore towards the Portage Lake Library on the pier, where we will have different vendors and activities for kids. We will have flags there. We will have the international students there. And just like I said, different vendors that we hope will bring out more community members,” Montesinos said.
The expansion will include more food options from local vendors, creating additional opportunities for community members to experience diverse cuisines and cultures. The new format also addresses practical concerns about weather that have affected previous outdoor events.
“But you know, I think that we’re a little bit more protected with this expansion and this rebrand of Festival of Nations because we’re not worrying about, you know, downpour on students walking the parade or the community members watching this parade. We have a lot of collaboration with the city to be able to put up tents if that were the situation. The Dee Stadium has always been sort of this refuge if we were to have bad weather. And that continues to stay the same,” Montesinos said.
Despite the changes, organizers are committed to preserving key elements that have made the festival special over the years. The logo and essay contests will continue as part of the celebration, maintaining important connections with local schools.
“Per the Parade of Nations, we would have a different theme that was based off of these local contests and essays. And that will continue to stay the same. And just in the spirit of wanting more community engagement, that was something that we did not want to take off the table. That element is very, very crucial in our outreach to other institutions, to children and having them be involved in the event as well,” Montesinos said.
The festival represents an important opportunity for international students to share their cultures with the local community while building meaningful connections. By expanding the event’s footprint and adding family-friendly activities, organizers hope to create a more inclusive celebration that strengthens bonds. The Festival of Nations will occur on September 19th. The deadline for the Festival of Nations essay scholarship will close June 15th.
Those interested in learning more about the exciting changes coming to the Festival of Nations can find information online. Including opportunities to get involved with welcoming the campus community back to their home in Houghton. Learn about sponsorship opportunities here.
