Columbia, SC – The vibrant tapestry of global cultures will once again converge at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds as the Columbia International Festival (CIF) marks its 30th anniversary on April 5th and 6th, 2025. This milestone celebration promises an even more expansive showcase of international cuisine, dance, fashion, and arts, honoring the rich diversity of South Carolina.
“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, the Columbia International Festival will be even better, showcasing a wider variety of delicious cuisines, dance, fashion, and gifts from different countries,” said Dr. Raj Aluri, director of CIF. “More than 100 countries will be represented in our National Exhibits.”
This year’s festival aims to be more accessible than ever, offering free parking at the fairgrounds and discounted advance ticket purchases. Attendees can secure their tickets online at cifonline.org or through Cola Daily Tickets, which offers a $3 discount off box office prices until April 1st.
A highlight of the festival, the Parade of Nations, will take place on Saturday, April 5th, at 2 p.m. in the Cantey Building, followed by the Adult International Fashion Show at 4 p.m. The Children’s Fashion Show will grace the stage on Sunday, April 6th, at 4 p.m., showcasing the vibrant and diverse styles from around the world.
With over 20 vendors serving authentic dishes from various cultures, the International Food Court will be a culinary adventure. The festival is committed to sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly packaging for all food service.
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 5th, and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 6th.
Ticket prices at the box office are:
- $10 per adult admission
- $7 per teen (ages 13-19)
- Free for children under 13
Active-duty military personnel and families of Title I school students can find promotional codes for complimentary tickets at www.CIFonline.org.
For the safety of all attendees, only clear bags will be permitted. Most purchases within the festival are cash-only. For detailed festival information, please visit cifonline.org.
The Columbia International Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting the diversity of the South Carolina Midlands, and this 30th anniversary celebration is a testament to its enduring mission.
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