SAN MARCOS — Palomar’s World Languages Department hosted “Café International” in the Student Union on Nov. 18. This event has been a semesterly tradition since 2016, excluding the year of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Café International allowed attendees to become more familiar with the diverse cultures of their peers. The event provided culture specific activities and foods, as well as a chance to learn more about the languages available for study at Palomar.
“This event brings together a lot of different cultures, students, faculty, staff and community members in one place to celebrate the language and cultures that the World Languages Department offers,” said Scott Nelson, event organizer, Italian and Spanish professor. “We want to share what we do and our love for different cultures, languages and food. Just to bring everyone together for a fun event.”
On entry to the Student Union, those present were given a sheet of paper, referred to as their passport, that was stamped upon completing each language booth’s offered activity. One such activity involved learning a Latin dance, which earned participants a stamp in the Spanish language section of their passport.
Once a language had been stamped, partakers were then granted access to the available foods from that culture. For example, the French booth provided croissants and crepes, whereas the Spanish booths provided tamales and pan dulce.
With their completed passports acting as their ticket, participants could also enter a raffle for a chance to win a prize, one of them being a gift basket.
Café International is an event open to all of Palomar that typically attracts between 200-300 people from various age groups and backgrounds.
“I think it is important for Palomar to have events like this because the world is so diverse and huge. We all have a culture and heritage … There is so much rich culture within us all,” said Elyanna Lopez, a Palomar student.
Those in attendance of Café International were also able to connect with peers and even form new friendships.
”There have been a few people who engaged in games together and ended up meeting new friends…” said Azurée Baker, French Club president.
There will be another Café International held in the Student Union in spring of 2026. Make sure to check your Palomar email for more information on upcoming events at Palomar College. Visit the World Languages Department website for more information.