Travel the World in One Night

As spring is around the corner, so too is the annual International Dinner! The theme of this year’s event is “Around the World: Night Market,” presented by the International Student Center, 6-8 p.m. Saturday, March 5 at Campion Ballroom.

This is the 45th year the International Student Center has hosted the dinner and the first time back in-person since the start of the pandemic. Unlike years past, there is a maximum capacity of 150 people compared to a normal dinner that would draw 350 students and members of the campus community.

Also new this is year is the format. Gone is the traditional sit-down dinner. Instead, the event will be fashioned after a night market, where student clubs will have tables set up featuring cuisine showcasing different cultures. All food will be in takeout containers so guests can enjoy it safely away from the crowd or at home. There will be live performances—a staple of the International Dinner—to celebrate the diverse cultures and nationalities represented at Seattle University.

To get more insight into what the night will look like, I spoke to Lauren Albano, the assistant director of the International Student Center, who provided a preview of what the night has in store for attendees. 

“I think we are trying to maintain the same mission for celebrating our students and diversity but flipping the script on the way we are showcasing the experience,” says Albano. Not only will there be food at the event, but there will also be performances by SU’s Taiko, SU’s Korean Student Association, Seattle’s own Zambuko Marimba Ensemble and a local Bollywood group.

Though the event is sold out, there may be some available spots that open up closer to the event (email isc@seattleu.edu to learn more). COVID safety protocols will be in place, requiring attendees to show an “Approved” Safe Start health check, wear masks (KN95 recommended) at all times and social distance.

Don't have a ticket but still want to experience the International Student Dinner in person? You may be in luck as the organizers are looking for volunteers to help ensure the event is a success. Email albanol@seattleu.edu for more details.

For more information, visit ConnectSU.