Celebration of Nations is one of the largest multicultural festivals in the region, bringing together the campus and community to celebrate cultures from around the world through music, dance, food, art, education, and shared experiences. Hosted annually by Missouri University of Science and Technology in downtown Rolla, the festival creates opportunities for people of all ages to connect, learn, and experience traditions from many different countries and backgrounds. Celebration of Nations highlights the power of community, cultural understanding, and the welcoming spirit that makes Rolla and Missouri S&T such a special place.
Following the Parade of Nations, the downtown festival lots located at 901 North Elm Street will come alive from Noon to 3:00 p.m. with music, culture, food, and family-friendly activities. Guests are encouraged to utilize the free shuttle service available throughout the day from the Innovation Lab located at 650 Tim Bradley Way. Shuttles will run approximately every 15 minutes between the parade and festival areas for convenient transportation and parking access.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees can enjoy cultural entertainment on two festival stages, complimentary photos with the Imagine-Nation characters, and opportunities to explore more than 85 vendors offering handmade crafts, cultural merchandise, and authentic cuisine from around the world. Guests can also purchase Celebration Sampler cups for just $1.00 each to sample a variety of foods from participating vendors.
New this year, attendees are invited to participate in the Bargain Boat Booth, a unique cultural exchange experience operated by the State Historical Society of Missouri, Missouri Humanities, and University of Missouri. Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring a small item with personal meaning to exchange for another contributed treasure while sharing the story behind its importance. The booth focuses on storytelling, cultural connection, and community engagement rather than monetary value, creating a meaningful and family-friendly experience for all ages.
Families are also encouraged to visit the Kummer Kids’ Korner, where K-12 students can pick up their official Celebration of Nations passport and travel throughout the festival collecting stamps while learning about countries and cultures from participating vendors. The more stamps collected, the larger the prize opportunities. This interactive educational activity is designed especially for children and students.
Guests should also keep an eye out for the Celebration of Nations interns throughout the festival grounds. Rolla High School student interns play an important role in supporting festival operations, welcoming guests, assisting with activities, and helping create a positive experience for attendees. Look for the bright green balloons to locate intern stations and information areas throughout the event.
Festival Highlights
• Parade of Nations lineup begins at 9:30 a.m. across from Leach Theatre at 400 W. 10th Street
• Parade participation open to students, community groups, schools, businesses, and organizations
• Festival located in the downtown Rolla festival lots at 901 North Elm Street
• Free shuttle service available from the Innovation Lab at 650 Tim Bradley Way
• Shuttles will run approximately every 15 minutes throughout the event
• Cultural entertainment performances on two festival stages from Noon to 3:00 p.m.
• Complimentary photos and meet-and-greets with the Imagine-Nation characters
• More than 85 vendors featuring handmade crafts, cultural merchandise, and international cuisine
• Celebration Sampler cups available for $1.00 to sample foods from participating vendors
• New Bargain Boat cultural exchange booth focused on storytelling and shared experiences
• Kummer Kids’ Korner Passport Program for K-12 students with educational activities and prizes
• Look for bright green balloons to locate Celebration of Nations interns and passport stamp stations
• Interns will assist with directions, festival activities, shuttle information, and family engagement throughout the day
