The World Cultural Fest is a family-friendly event invites residents and visitors to experience the world without leaving Northwest Indiana. Guests can enjoy live performances by multicultural music and dance groups, international cuisine from local ethnic restaurants, children’s activities, and informational booths from community organizations that celebrate and support cultural diversity.
On Sunday, August 24, 2025, downtown Valparaiso will once again come alive with the sounds, sights, and flavors of cultures from around the globe. From 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm, the Valparaiso International Center’s (VIC) World Cultural Festival will take over Central Park Plaza, home to the Northwest Health Amphitheater, offering a vibrant celebration of diversity and community.
“For nearly two decades, the World Cultural Festival has showcased the incredible variety of traditions and talents in our community,” said Duane Davison, founding director of the VIC. “It’s a joyful space where neighbors connect, cultures are honored, and people leave with a deeper appreciation for the richness of our shared humanity.”
The entertainment lineup for 2025 spans continents and traditions, featuring performances by:
- Ananya Kar
- Brasoveanca (Romania)
- Cai Wei Dancers (China)
- Carolyn & Pancho Rodea (Mexico and Central America)
- Chinmaya Mission
- Chris McQuillen
- Dance Excel (U.S.)
- Jasmine Dancers (China)
- Mariachi Ste. Maria (Mexico)
- Mei Feng Traditional Chinese Music Ensemble
- Peter Kaiafas & Louie Georgacopoulos (Greece)
- Ragu Subramanian (India)
- Sincopado with Valpo City Ballroom
- Soul of Sol (South Korea)
- The Blues Project with Valpo City Ballroom
- Tiger Kumar (China)
- Valpo City Ballroom teaches Blues Dancing
- Valpo City Ballroom teaches Salsa
- Valpo High Indian Dance Club (India/U.S.)
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Delicious Ethnic And International Foods From:
Don Quijote
Kin Khao Thai Sushi
Bao Pastry
El Salto
E’Namele (Soul)
Taste of India
Kate’s Kitchen
Las Cubanitas
A beloved tradition of the festival, the Parade of Nations, will begin at approximately 3:15 pm. Attendees are encouraged to join in, wearing traditional attire and carrying flags or signs representing their heritage as they circle the plaza in a display of unity and pride.
And of course, the festival’s food offerings will tempt taste buds with authentic international flavors from some of Northwest Indiana’s favorite restaurants and vendors. A variety of local nonprofits and Fair Trade organizations will also be on hand, sharing their missions and offering unique goods for purchase.
The Children’s Tent will provide activities designed to inspire curiosity about the world, including face painting, henna art, origami, storytelling, and other interactive experiences for young festivalgoers.
“We aim to create a space where every generation can learn, enjoy, and celebrate the many cultures that make our community so special,” said Board Member Kiran Shah. “For children especially, these early experiences can spark a lifelong openness to diversity.”
The VIC extends its gratitude to its sponsors, whose generosity makes the event possible. Title Sponsor NITCO is joined by major sponsors NIPSCO, Thorgren Industries, 1st Source Bank, Centier Bank, Horizon Bank, Simko Signs, Valparaiso Rotary Club, Mayor Jon Costas, Everwise, Dr. & Mrs. Surjit Patheja, Jamila Miller, D.D.S, M.S.D., the Medical Associates of NWI through Dr. Gaurav Kumar, along with many other community partners.
For more information about the 2025 World Cultural Festival or the Valparaiso International Center, visit www.valpovic.org, call (219) 464-1122, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/valpovic, or follow @valpovic on Instagram.
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Susie Young Baxter, CEO, has published PanoramaNOW Magazine for 31 years. Her hobbies are Camping, Boating, Hiking, Nature, Gardening and Outdoor Activities. She is an Artist, Graphic Designer, an Avid Seamstress, Dabbles in Homemade Crafts and Landscaping. Since her Father was a Health Teacher, she also likes homeopathic Health Solutions. Since blogging started over 10 years ago, PanoramaNow has been added to Newsbreak – a national news affiliate.
