Sounds, Flavours and Traditions at the International Cultural Festival

The Fieldhouse was alive with the sounds, aromas and colours of the Ridley International Cultural Festival on Friday, January 23rd.

The vibrant event brought together students, families, faculty and staff to celebrate the diversity of the Ridley community through artistic performances, storytelling and food from around the world. It has quickly become a favourite event on Ridley’s calendar. From traditional dress, dance and songs to the lively hum of conversation across the food booths, the festival offered a rich, sensory experience that reflected the School's global makeup.

For Mr. Bruno Petitti, who spent his afternoon making espresso at the Italian booth, the festival is a powerful reminder of what makes the Ridley community special.

“My favourite part is seeing the community come together,” he said. “Everyone is just having fun, smiling, sharing stories. This year, especially, the performances really levelled up. It’s incredible to see different styles of dancing and performers of all ages.”

Bruno also highlighted the pride on display throughout the Fieldhouse. “The sense of community and how proud everyone is of their heritage and their nations, and how they share that within a community that’s so welcoming and accepting, is just something really beautiful.”

Parents echoed that sentiment. Current parent, Lara Cousins, who moved to Canada from South Africa with her family, said the festival captures what first made Ridley feel like home.

“When we arrived, the only people we really knew were through the school, but everyone was so welcoming,” she said. “It was amazing to see the diversity of students and staff. No nation is represented more than any other. Everyone feels welcome.”

The festival is an immersive experience the moment you walk through the doors.

“Your senses get completely engaged,” Lara said. “You’re smelling all these different foods at once, seeing traditional clothing, performances and students of all ages getting involved and excited. It’s incredible.”

“Food brings people together. There’s always joy when there’s food — it’s a perfect celebration of all the global cultures here at Ridley.”

The International Cultural Festival underscored the strength of Ridley’s community and its commitment to inclusion, connection and celebration. A special thank you goes out to the many volunteers, performers, and food booth organizers whose time and energy helped make the afternoon so memorable.