A Celebration of Community at the International Food Festival

The International Food Festival (IFF) is one of ISP's most beloved community traditions, bringing together parents, students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the rich diversity that makes our school so unique. More than just a showcase of food, the International Food Festival is an opportunity to share cultures, build connections, and strengthen the sense of belonging that lies at the heart of our community.

Last Saturday, more than 1,000 members of the ISP community gathered on campus for this annual celebration. Representing 21 countries from South Korea and USA to Armenia, students, parents, faculty and staff proudly shared traditional dishes, stories, and customs through beautifully decorated stalls that transformed the Elementary School parking lot into a vibrant global gathering place. From familiar favorites to new culinary discoveries, food served as a powerful connector, sparking conversations and bringing people together across cultures and generations. A special thank you to Aramark for generously donating the beverages, which added to the welcoming atmosphere and helped make the celebration even more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Throughout the afternoon, the community enjoyed performances from talented ISP students, including the Upper School Rock Band, student groups, and choir performances. Families and friends of all ages also took part in activities such as games, face painting, balloon art, and raffle baskets, led by Upper School Student Council and other Upper School volunteers, making for a lively afternoon filled with laughter and connection.

What makes the International Food Festival so meaningful is the spirit of generosity behind it. Families, country leads, volunteers, students, staff, and the School Community Association (SCA) worked together to create an event that truly reflects the welcoming and inclusive nature of ISP. 

“As the SCA's largest fundraiser of the year, the IFF plays an important role in supporting student life across the school. Funds raised help provide a variety of student and community events throughout the year, from movie nights and socials to special celebrations and activities that foster connection and belonging.”
Barbora Blackman, SCA Chair

The International Food Festival is a celebration of who we are as a community. It is a reminder that while we come from more than 60 different nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds, we are united by shared experiences and meaningful connections.

This event would not have been possible without the leadership, dedication, and countless hours of work from SCA Chair, Barbora Blackman. Her commitment, along with the efforts of the entire SCA team, helped create a day that brought our community together in celebration.

We are also deeply grateful to the wider ISP community for your continued support of the SCA. Thanks to your generosity, more than 215,000 CZK was raised through this year's International Food Festival, helping to provide meaningful experiences and opportunities for students throughout the year. The festival is a wonderful reflection of what can be achieved when our community comes together, and this year's event was another memorable reminder of what makes ISP feel like home.