Conceived by our Director of Academic Programs Emery Young, and Middle School Dean Halima Skiles, the first annual BASIS International School Hangzhou World Fair in March 2019 was created to give students, parents, and our community a glimpse of the world through interactive booths, diverse food offerings, a curated art show, live music, and culturally relevant performances throughout the day. In the words of co-organizer and PE Subject Expert Teacher Trey Boblett, “it was a success!”
Balloon entrance to the World Fair
Parents partnered with the school staff to bring this vision to life with decor–from a gorgeous balloon arch at the school entrance to the giant vintage post cards representing various continents and countries. Students, parents, and teachers enthusiastically participated in the various bouncy house activities, jousting for their lives.
World Fair attendees enjoy the jousting activity.
Opening ceremonies began with teachers and students performing two incredible numbers–including one written and composed by the BASIS International School Hangzhou rock band!
BASIS International School Hangzhou rock band performing
Students and teachers performing on world percussion instruments
Over 18 countries and regions were represented, including China, New Zealand, Japan, South America, United States, Greece, and the continent of Africa just to name a few.
Booth representing the continent of Africa
Booth representing the United States
Booth representing the continent of South America
Personal Highlight: The World Fair Food Market
My mouth is still watering as I recall the delicious food vendors who joined us. From handmade garlic Naan and vegetable samosas, to school favorite fresh sashimi poke bowls, to a gigantic pan of Paella from a local Spanish restaurant, we all left with full tummies and big smiles. The biggest treat for me, though: savory popcorn as sweet popcorn is much more common in China.
Delicious foods are prepared for the World Fair
Thoughts from some of our booth presenters:
I was incredibly proud to be a part of the BASIS International School Hangzhou World Fair, and truly humbled to see so many volunteers taking part to make the event so special. It really brought home a greater recognition of the international experience of the teachers and the appreciation for the globally minded school we have. I was also delighted to see so much interest in my home country–although I suspect the expertly made English cuisine on offer did most of the heavy lifting. I really look forward to putting it all on again in the future!
– Aaron Clegg, ELL Coordinator representing the United Kingdom
The World Fair was a good event for both students and parents. It came together well and there is a strong base to build upon for next year. The generous budgetary assistance provided by the school operations team helped a lot when preparing our display. The quality and types of materials provided by the fair organizers were helpful as they allowed for variation, which went in line with the diversity we see from nations of the world. I particularly liked the food offerings, play areas, and flamenco dancing. There is definitely potential for a yearly event.
– Peter Kolodziej, 2nd & 3rd grade Math/Science Subject Expert Teacher
Lily Lufuluabo is the Primary Dean at BASIS International School Hangzhou. Read more about the recent House system activities at BASIS International School Hangzhou here.
Would love to be a part of such fairs! A great idea to implement in schools and education institutes