Calendar of Events

Cultural activities are an integral part of international education at UNI. The OIE provides a variety of fun and entertaining opportunities for our students to experience everyday life in the Midwest.

Here are some of activities we provide

  • Cultural Events | celebrate our students cultures and various festivals and traditions
  • Volunteering within the Community | Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Public Library, In School Classrooms
  • Field trips to experience Midwest and agricultural culture
  • Regional trips to neighboring states to explore what the Midwest offers
  • Local events and celebrations in the Cedar Valley Community 

Upcoming Events

The UNI Office of International Engagement is kicking off the fall season with a fun-filled lineup of events just for YOU! Whether you’re looking to explore Iowa’s beauty, connect with new friends, or enjoy some cozy fall vibes and great food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this semester.

September 2025

Afternoon at George Wyth State Park | Sept. 6th| 4-8pm | Sign Up Required Online 

Unplug and unwind with an evening of kayaking, swimming, and outdoor fun at George Wyth State Park! Transportation and equipment provided—just bring your adventurous spirit!

Local Shuttle | Sept. 13th | 1-3pm | Sign Up Required Online 

Need to grab groceries, run errands, or make it to a local appointment? Hop on the free Local Shuttle—we’ll get you where you need to go around town. Convenient, easy, and made for students!

Visit to Moonfire Ridge | Sept. 14th | 3-7pm | Sign Up Required Online 

Spend the afternoon at Moonfire Ridge, a beautiful local acreage with kayaking, volleyball, bonfires, and s’mores. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and fun! 

Culture + Coffee | Sept. 19th | 3:30-4:30pm | University Room | NO Sign-up required

Celebrate culture and community over a warm cup of coffee! Hear from UNI International students as they share personal stories, traditions, and experiences from around the world! A great way to connect! 

Japan Specialty Workshop | MORE DETAILS TO COME

Get ready for a hands-on experience celebrating Japanese culture—featuring activities like traditional food, art, and more! Full details will be released soon on our social media, so stay tuned!

Amazing Race; Homecoming Tradition | Sept. 30th | 4-6:30pm | On Campus | Registration Required

Team up, race across campus, and tackle challenges in this fast-paced, high-energy homecoming tradition! Will your team win it all? Let the race begin!


October 2025

UNI Homecoming Parade | Oct. 4th | 8:30-12pm | Sign Up Required to Walk with OIE 

Show your Panther pride and represent the Office of International Engagement in the UNI Homecoming Parade! Walk with us, wear your purple, and help celebrate campus spirit in one of the biggest events of the season.

Culture  + Coffee | Oct 10th | 3:30-4:30pm | University Room | NO Sign-up required

Grab a warm drink and join us for meaningful conversations as students share stories and traditions from around the world. Meet with on campus student organizations and get to know some of our English Language Learners. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space to learn and connect.

Mid Autumn Festival | Oct. 17th | 5-7pm | Hearst Center for the Arts | NO Sign-up required

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with us! Enjoy cultural activities, mooncakes, and the beauty of the season in a festive evening filled with light, community, and tradition.

Regional Trip; St.Louis | Oct. 18-19th | ALL DAY | Sign Up Required by Sept. 20th 

Adventure awaits on our overnight trip to St. Louis! From exploring iconic landmarks to attending a live hockey game or visiting Union Station, this trip is packed with experiences. Don’t miss your chance—spots are limited!

Diwali Celebration | Oct. 24th | 5-7pm | Threehouse | NO Sign-up required

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with music, food, and culture! Diwali is a time of joy, and this evening is open to everyone—come light up the night with us.

“Boo Bash” Halloween Party | Oct. 31st | 7-9pm | TBD | NO Sign-up required

Costumes, candy, games, and more! Join us for a spook-tacular evening at the Boo Bash Halloween Party. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends and festive fun.

Japan Speciality Workshop  | MORE DETAILS TO COME 

Experience the culture and traditions of Japan through a hands-on workshop filled with interactive activities and fun surprises. Follow us on social media for updates!


November 2025 

International Education Week | Nov. 17th-21st | ALL WEEK | All Events Free and Open to the Public! 

Join us for a full week of global experiences, cultural learning, and international celebration! With events ranging from traditional ceremonies to hands-on workshops and food tastings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stay tuned—more surprises to come!

Japan Tea Ceremony | Nov. 17th | 5-6pm | Maucker Union | NO Sign-up required

Experience the calm and beauty of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Learn about the cultural meaning behind every movement while enjoying this peaceful and symbolic ritual.

Omamori Workshop | Nov 17th | 6-7pm | Maucker Union | NO Sign-up required

Create your own omamori—Japanese good luck charms—while learning about their cultural significance and connection to Shinto traditions. A perfect keepsake and cultural craft!

Taste of Culture | Nov. 18th | 4:30-7pm | Maucker Union Ballrooms | NO Sign-up required

Experience a vibrant celebration of global traditions at Taste of Culture!
🌍 Students will host tables representing their countries, sharing food, traditions, and stories.
🎶 Enjoy live performances from local cultural groups and our students! 
🤝 Join in on a wide range of interactive activities in partnership with community organizations.
Come hungry, curious, and ready to explore the world—right here at UNI!

Japan Hairpin Workshop/Yukata Try On | Nov. 19th | 4-6:30pm | Maucker Union | NO Sign-up required

Try on a yukata (a traditional Japanese garment) and craft your own Japanese hairpin to match. It’s a fun and creative way to step into Japanese culture and style!

International Thanksgiving Dinner | Nov 20th | 6-8pm | Invitation Only 

A warm and welcoming evening for international students and guests to experience a traditional Thanksgiving meal—with a UNI twist! Invitation-only event filled with gratitude, food, and connection.

Culture  + Coffee | Nov 21st | 3:30-4:30pm | Univeristy Room | NO Sign-up required

Close out International Education Week with one more round of inspiring stories and cultural exchange over a cozy cup of coffee. A perfect send-off to a week of global connection!

MORE TO COME!


December 2025 

Holiday Coffee Hour with President Nook | Dec 12th | 3:30-4:30pm | TBD | NO Sign-up required

Warm up with a cup of coffee and join President Nook for a special holiday edition of Culture + Coffee! Take a break before finals, share in some seasonal cheer, and celebrate the close of a great semester together.

Holiday Dinner + End of Session Celebration | 5-7pm | 5-7pm | Invitation Only 

Celebrate the end of the semester with a cozy, festive holiday dinner! This invitation-only event brings together students, staff, and friends for a night of food, reflection, and holiday joy before winter break.

Japan Specialty Workshop  | MORE DETAILS TO COME

Explore more of Japanese culture in this unique, hands-on workshop experience. Whether it’s traditional crafts, food, or customs—follow us on social media for all the details coming soon!


January 2026

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February 2026

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March 2026

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April 2026

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May 2026

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