On December 13, Samara University hosted the vibrant and vivid Ethnic Festival that became an unforgettable event for the University’s students and guests. This annual celebration of culture and identity brought together participants from all over the world, representing diversity of national traditions and crafts. In the atmosphere of friendship and unity, the Festival truly reflected the global cultural mosaic that unites people of various nationalities and ethnic groups.
The parade of flags opened the Festival, with various countries’ representatives to proudly show their national symbols. This colorful procession reminded the audience of richness and diversity of cultures that coexist in the world. Participants from different parts of the world demonstrated their countries’ symbols, creating a sense of celebration and unity, which embraced all those present.
The main part of the Festival was performances by folk groups. Representing ancestral traditions of their countries, dance groups and vocal performers succeeded each other on the stage. Each performance was a real art, full of energy and sincerity. With its fascinating dance traditions, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, represented by Pandy Elliott David Emmnuel, has surely won the first award in the Nomination “Best Dance Performance”. Their fiery rhythms and colorful costumes added exoticism and joy to the Festival atmosphere.
The culinary part of the Festival was no less interesting. At the national cuisine fair, guests could taste various dishes from all over the world. Alieva Gunel Imamgulu kyzy presented her traditional treats on behalf of Azerbaijan. For this magnificent gastronomic performance, the team from Azerbaijan was awarded in the Nomination “Best Presentation of National Cuisine”.
The important part of the event was workshops, during which everyone could learn something new and interesting. Craftsmen from various countries shared their knowledge in the field of traditional crafts: weaving, wood carving, art painting and other skills. The workshops on making national souvenirs were especially popular and caused great interest of both students and teachers.
Vocal performances also left no one indifferent. Because of sensual and melodic performances, Georgia, represented by Areseny Usikyan, was recognized the best in the Nomination “Best Vocal Performance”. These harmonious voices and unique manner of performance fascinated the listeners, making them forget about time and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of hospitality.
At the end of the Festival winners in various categories were selected, which allowed each team to show their talents. The team of Ecuador (Tapia Moreno Evelyn Yasmin, Ramarumanana Niri Ni Aina Larissa, Vaca Velasquez Domenica Paulina) was recognized the “Best Team”: the team members revealed not only their creativity, but also their team spirit, as well as the ability to organize high-level performances. Their bright dances and melodies became a real highlight of the party.
The Ethnic Festival at Samara University has become a vivid evidence of how culture and traditions can unite people, creating the atmosphere of mutual understanding and respect. The participants and the audience left the party with smiles on their faces and inspiration in their hearts, full of impressions and the desire to continue discovering the world of diverse culture. This Festival is the kindest tradition at the university, no doubt about it!
Text: Daria Khripunova