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A large group of students in traditional dress hold their countries flag in a line going up the stairs and long the second level of Alumni Hall on Knox College campus.

International Fair: Bringing the World Closer to Knox

Knox College hosted its 45th annual International Fair (I-Fair) on the 31st of January, 2026, bringing culture and traditions from across the globe to life. This year’s theme centered around sports from around the word, bringing the community together through activities organized by cultural clubs in the week leading up to the Cultural Showcase, Flag Parade, and the Food Fair. 

Co-President of International Club, Aisha Spear ’26, said that she enjoyed planning the event, giving insight into what coordinating such a large scale event looks like. “We started planning I-Fair in July, having to prepare materials to coordinate with different groups on campus,” she said.  “It was lovely to see the auditorium filled with students, professors, and the rest of the Galesburg community–it made all the work worth it.”  

The different elements of I-Fair were appreciated by domestic and international students alike. 

Ciaran Finn ’27 said, “It is always refreshing to see different cultures interacting with each other in a collective effort to create a positive environment–plus you get to learn a great deal.” 

“As an international student, I love seeing my culture having a platform where we can showcase who we are and what we represent,” said Sashwot Karki ’28. “Plus the Food Fair is amazing. I love trying new things from different countries and, of course, having a taste of home to share with people who haven’t had the opportunity to try it before.”   

I-Fair holds a very special place for many students of the community. Spear, especially, appreciates the opportunity to bring the world together. “I-Fair means having a celebration and festival honoring the diversity at Knox,” she explained. “I have been on I-Club’s executive board since my first-year, and it is very dear to my heart.”

View more photos of I-Fair on Flickr!

  • Three students stand at a table during Booth Fair playing a game.
  • A student stands at a microphone on stage in traditional dress holding a country flag.
  • A group of Knox students dance on stage.
  • Two Knox students dance on stage.
  • A Knox student stands at a microphone on stage in traditional dress holding a country flag.
  • A large group of Knox students stands on a stage with President C. Andrew McGadney waving flags from several different countries around the world.

Published on February 09, 2026

Nysa Phulwar ’26, Office of Communications Student Writer