International Bazaar Showcases Global Cuisine and Entertainment
Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS) hosted its annual International Bazaar on Saturday, May 13. The event was held on the school's soccer field and featured live cultural performances, a parade of nations, international food, and booths representing various countries and organizations. The bazaar was a huge success, with over 2,500 people in attendance. The weather was perfect, and the atmosphere was festive. The community came out to enjoy the event and celebrate the cultural diversity of YISS.
FOOD BOOTHS - The food was one of the biggest draws of the bazaar. This year the International Bazaar offer foods from all around the world such as Brazil, China, France, India, Ireland, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, North Korea, Peru, Thailand, Vietnam, and of course Korea amongst the many other scrumptious options. The Junior/Senior Prom Committee kept visitors cool in the hot afternoon sun by selling cold drinks and iced coffee. They were a hit by all and a great opportunity for the students to raise funds for their event.
PARADE OF NATIONS - Hearts were full watching approximately 90 students carry the flags of the 54 nations our school community represent in traditional costumes and with big smiles. It was a beautiful representation and celebration of our community’s cultural diversity.
CULTURAL PERFORMANCES - In addition to the food, the bazaar also featured a variety of other activities. There were live cultural performances, including traditional Korean Samulnori, a Bollywood performance, Thai traditional dance, Korean TROT, an Indian Kathak dance, Hawaiian hula, and more.
VENDOR BOOTHS - There was plenty to shop for at the Bazaar Booths, which ranged from handmade bracelets, Indian fabric, handmade dolls to various African crafts. Hats off to the vendors who created fun craft tables, cupcake decorations and critters to keep our students squealing in delight! Always fun to chase after a run away beetle or two!!! A big hit and service to our community were the pre-loved vendors too!! Always love a bargain!
ACTIVITY BOOTHS - The Kids’ Zone offered opportunities to jump on bouncy castles, to visit a petting zoo where they were able to observe and interact with animals big and small, enjoyed a little skill in volleyball and/or futsal, and have their faces painted by high school club volunteers. Children were also able to take advantage of the warm and sunny day in the Water Zone where they were able to enjoy a classic water gun fight. YISS students and community members had a world of fun in the Kids’ Zone!
The International Bazaar is a great way for the YISS community to come together and celebrate the school's cultural diversity. The YISS Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) put in an immense amount of time and effort to make this event possible. Thanks to their efforts, the entire YISS community was able to enjoy a memorable day of international food, cultural performances, and activities.