2025 World Cultural Festival

A Joyful Celebration: World Cultural Festival 2025 Brings Community Together

On Sunday, August 24, 2025, downtown Valparaiso came alive with music, dance, flavors, and traditions from around the globe as the Valparaiso International Center’s (VIC) World Cultural Festival filled Central Park Plaza with joy, connection, and cultural pride. From noon to 5:00 pm, thousands of residents and visitors experienced the richness of international heritage in the heart of Northwest Indiana.

The day was filled with extraordinary performances from artists representing cultures spanning five continents—from the rhythms of Mariachi Sta. Maria of Mexico to the soulful sounds of South Korea’s Soul of Sol, from graceful Chinese dance troupes to lively Greek, Romanian, Cuban, and Indian traditions. The Parade of Nations at 3:00 pm was once again a highlight, with attendees circling the plaza in colorful attire, carrying flags, and celebrating their heritage in a moving display of unity.

Festivalgoers also delighted in authentic international cuisine provided by local restaurants and vendors, explored booths from community and nonprofit organizations, and enjoyed the bustling Children’s Tent featuring face painting, henna, origami, storytelling, and other hands-on cultural experiences. Families, students, and community members of all ages shared in the fun, leaving with both full hearts and full stomachs.

“For nearly two decades, the World Cultural Festival has been a joyful reminder that Valparaiso is home to an incredible diversity of traditions, talents, and people,” said Duane Davison, founding director of the VIC. “This year’s festival carried that legacy forward in a truly unforgettable way.”

The VIC extends heartfelt thanks to all who made this event possible—our performers, vendors, volunteers, and especially our sponsors. Title Sponsor NITCO was joined by major sponsors NIPSCO, Thorgren Industries, 1st Source Bank, Centier Bank, Horizon Bank, Simko Signs, Valparaiso Rotary Club, Mayor Jon Costas, Everwise, Dr. & Mrs. Surjit Patheja, Jamila Miller, D.D.S, M.S.D., and the Medical Associates of NWI through Dr. Gaurav Kumar, along with many other generous community partners.

The World Cultural Festival continues to be a space where neighbors connect, cultures are honored, and all are welcome. We look forward to seeing you again next year as we celebrate the many stories and traditions that make our community stronger together.