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Columbia Middle School welcomed nearly 100 families for its annual Spring Multicultural Festival, a vibrant afternoon celebrating culture, community, and connection, held on April 4.

Families were welcomed by colorful cultural booths, various international flags proudly displayed, vibrant tapestries, lively music, and the inviting aromas of sweet and savory dishes representing traditions from around the world.

The event was made possible by the leadership of the Columbia Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) Board, with support from Todd DuLude, sixth-grade English language arts and social studies teacher and PTSA Teacher Representative, as well as the school’s leadership team, parent volunteers, student groups, including the National Junior Honor Society and CMS Leadership, and staff across campus.

“The Spring Multicultural Festival is a powerful reflection of the rich diversity within our community,” DuLude said. “It creates space for students and families to share their cultures, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom. We look forward to continuing to grow this festival while learning from other schools’ multicultural events.”

The festival featured representations from Portuguese and Brazilian, Filipino, Samoan and Pacific Islander, Chinese, British, and Indian communities, among others, offering guests an opportunity to learn about and engage with a wide range of cultures.

Attendees sampled a variety of small bites provided by the cultural booths, including Hawaiian musubi, Filipino lumpia, Chinese chow mein, and Brazilian sweet treats.

 A live DJ also helped set the tone with a thoughtfully curated mix of music from around the world, leading into a series of live performances that brought the festival to life. Mexican Danza Folklórica, West African drum and dance by Kuumba, and a Hawaiian dance each showcased cultural traditions through movement and rhythm, drawing enthusiastic responses from the crowd and adding to the energy of the afternoon.

Students and families also enjoyed a range of interactive activities. Carnival-style games provided free, kid-friendly entertainment, while two bounce houses offered additional fun for younger attendees. The Boy Scouts hosted a hands-on activity featuring water-powered rockets, giving participants the chance to launch their own creations.

“At Columbia, our diversity is our strength,” said Principal Mr. Poo. “The Spring Multicultural Festival is a defining tradition of our school community, built with care, pride, and a deep commitment to honoring one another. We are grateful to all who helped bring it to life.”