The University of Texas at Arlington and the International Student Organization (ISO) will present the 34th annual International Week (I-Week) from April 4 to April 8. Approximately 20 different student-led nationality organizations participate in this week-long celebration.

This year’s theme is “Culture Shock,” and will feature a soccer tournament, an Opening Parade led by the widely recognized UTA Samba Band, a Food Fair featuring food from all over the world made by UT Arlington’s international students, an international Fashion Show, intriguing and intricate cultural exhibits created by the students, and a talent show showcasing all the spectacular talents of the many and varied international students who have come to UT Arlington from countries all over the world.

The festival officially begins at noon Monday, April 4, at Nedderman Hall, 416 Yates St. Students bearing banners from more than 130 countries will progress from Nedderman Hall around campus through the UT Arlington Library Mall, where Provost Donald Bobbitt, will kick off the week with an opening speech. The ceremony will end in the Bluebonnet Ballroom in the E.H. Hereford University Center with refreshments and student performances.

The remainder of the week’s events is as follows. (Unless otherwise noted, all events will be held in the Bluebonnet Ballroom in the E.H. Hereford University Center, 300 W. First St.) All events are free and open to the public.

I-Week  2011 “Culture Shock” April 2- 8  this year includes:

Saturday, April 2
9 am-5 pm
Soccer Tournament
MAC Indoor Soccer Field
500 W. Nedderman Drive

Monday, April 4
Noon: Parade of Banners
12:15 pm-1 pm: Grand Opening Ceremony
1 pm-2 pm: Nationality/Cultural Exhibits Open for Viewing

Tuesday, April 5
11 am-2 pm: Food Fair, University Center Mall: The community will be able to purchase ethnic food items from the booths of different nationalities.

Wednesday, April 6
6 pm-7 pm: Nationality/Cultural Exhibits Open for Viewing
 7 pm-9 pm: Fashion Show, Bluebonnet (UC): A fun, cultural night of ethnic outfits and costumes.

Thursday, April 7
9:30 am-1:30 pm:  School Visits Day

Friday, April 8
6 pm-7 pm: Nationality/Cultural Exhibits Open for Viewing
7 pm-9 pm: Global Extravaganza Talent Show, Bluebonnet (UC): Provides an array of cultural performances, ranging from song and dance to drama and comedy.

See Photos for Spring 2009 I-Week Photos.