From Ice to Spice: Grand Forks Cultural Events

As an international student, committing to UND initially seemed like putting all internationality of my life on a four-year hold. Little did I know that this seemingly small and very midwestern town packs a punch with a diverse array of events year-round. I get tons of opportunities to see my community represent my favorite aspect of Grand Forks–the incredible people. With that, here is a list of Grand Forks cultural events that should be a “must attend” for you this year!

Every year the African Student Union at UND hosts the African Culture Night, an evening full of energetic displays of the various dance forms, literature, and many other aspects of Africa–including delicious food like samosas and tikka masala! Discover a broad range of  fashions (my favorite part) and dance from all across the African continent, and be sure to check out the individual booths that highlight different countries and their culture.
The event is held in the Memorial Union annually in the first week of April. This year the event was even more of a success than last year, bringing more and more people each year to see the show.

Check out this video from UND’s 2022 African Culture Night event!

The Time Out Wacipi Powwow at UND is an annual celebration that brings together participants and spectators from near and far to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous life. This lively event showcases the rich traditions of Indigenous cultures through captivating displays of dance, music, and art. As the drums beat in rhythm with the dancers’ movements, the powwow becomes a feast for the senses, with attendees indulging in traditional fare and perusing stalls filled with handmade crafts and artisanal goods. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, music, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends cultural boundaries.

Get a taste of the event with this video!

In what can only be described as a scene out of a Hallmark movie, downtown Grand Forks gets all decked up during the Christmas season with daily holiday activities and events. At HollyDazzle, downtown businesses in do their part by creating a ton of fun activities for all ages, including a winter market, sleigh rides, marshmallow roasting in the plaza, cookie decorating, popcorn garland making, and more, all leading up to the Christmas parade in the evening and the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Town Square. My favorite part is the fireworks after overlooking the river. The day is perfect to spend with friends, family or even a loved one!

See all the sparkling action here!

Each year, the UND Korean Cultural Exchange Club hosts an annual extravaganza known as Korean Culture Night, a celebration that showcases the rich tapestry of Korean life. Wander through the multiple stalls, where students bring to life the essence of Korea through an array of captivating displays. From traditional crafts to modern trends, there’s something to captivate every visitor. Personally, I found myself drawn to the beauty products, each one a testament to Korea’s renowned skincare expertise. And let’s not forget the thrill of discovering my color palette based on my skin, eye and hair color – a delightful journey of self-expression that left me feeling inspired. Overall it was an immersive journey of the sights, sounds, and flavors of Korea, right here in Grand Forks!

Find out more about the Korean Cultural Exchange Club here!

The UND Student Association of India (SAI) from UND hosts the Diwali Night as their annual event. Diwali the Festival of Lights is the biggest celebration in India, celebrating the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”. Each year in the late fall, SAI brings that spirit and the vibrance directly to the halls of the Memorial Union. The event looks as if the stars have descended upon the ballroom, all decked out in the bold hues of purple and gold. The event is celebrated with multiple performances showcasing the festivities of India and ends with a taste of the local cuisine. You might even get some henna body art before the night is over!

Check out this Diwali Night teaser, or watch a full event here!

The Grand Forks community shows its diversity and inclusive nature yet again during the Global Friends Picnic, where we celebrate our Grand Forksians with food, presentations, and social gathering during World Refugee Day. There is a sense of oneness and togetherness as the volunteers of Global Friends help new Americans settle into Grand Forks. One can also see this as a big welcome party where the message is clear: Grand forks welcomes everyone with open arms. The newest residents of GF also get to showcase and share their cultures with us all.

Learn all about Global Friends coalition in Molly’s article!

Syttende Mai, or Norwegian Constitution Day, is a cherished celebration for the Norwegian community in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Hosted by the Gyda Varden Sons of Norway Lodge #21, the event typically takes place at their lodge on 9th avenue South and commemorates Norway’s independence on May 17th. Festivities include a “Taste of Norway” smorgasbord featuring traditional dishes like Smørbrød and Lefse, along with raffle ticket sales for prizes such as lefse grills.

Throughout the year, the Sons of Norway Lodge also organizes various cultural events, including Sankthansaften (Summer Solstice) celebrations, Julefest (Christmas celebrations), and Rosemaling “Paint-Ins,” fostering connections within the international community and celebrating Grand Forks’ Norwegian heritage.

Did you know Grand Forks has a sister city in Norway? Learn more here!

Last but surely not the least is Feast of Nations. What can only be described as the largest cultural fest in and around Grand Forks and held in March of every year, Feast of Nations is the perfect event to see the diversity of Grand Forks all in one room, from colorful dresses to a world cuisine and even a red carpet.
FoN has it all! Pull out your best fits and get ready to feel like a celebrity as you walk into the Alerus Center with some of Grand Forks best and brightest. Once the show begins you are taken away into a whole new world with their acts and it truly stands up to its name of “feast” when they serve you a three course meals while you enjoy the dazzling show of cultural celebration.
Watch the Feast of Nations highlight video here, or the full event (hosted by me in 2024) here!