The Ball State community gathered to experience the international cultures of more than 25 countries at the Amazing Taste on Thursday night.
Suzanne Clem, marketing coordinator for Dining Services, said more than 50 international dishes were provided as well as information tables, activities and entertainment, allowing attendees to not only eat but also learn through an interactive experience.
"This event is a chance to bring different cultures to Muncie because not everybody gets to travel around the world," said Liz Poore, assistant director of operations for Dining Services.
The Amazing Taste took place in the lawn between DeHority, Woodworth and Park halls. Poore said the event was in the planning process for more than a year and that it would take three days to set up and tear down the premises.
Trevor Foley, events coordinator for the Rinker Center for International Programs, said the center collaborated with Dining Services, UPB and the Multicultural Center to organize a larger event to play tribute to the significant increase in the number of international students at Ball State.
Foley said Dining Services approached the Rinker Center in its quest to organize an international event.
Foley said he hoped Amazing Taste would spark an interest in students to become more interested in international cultures.
Kyle Hovanec, president of the Asian American Student Association, said the event gave its organization a chance to participate in something big. Along with an information booth, the AASA offered Chinese calligraphy demonstrations.
The event had an array of activities and entertainment for the community. The belly-dancing club performed; There was also a steel drum band and sword fighting exhibitions. Henna tattoos, hair braiding and picture taking with camels were also provided.
Senior criminal justice major Rachel Churchill was attracted to the event when she heard about the camels.
"I came because I really wanted to pet a camel," she said.
Churchill, who has studied abroad in London, said the event seemed like a great experience for those who haven't studied abroad yet.
"I wish they would have had this every year," she said.
Senior anthropology and Japanese major Steven Wilcox came to the event to meet friends and enjoy the international food.
"I've been planning to come the past couple of weeks, but I wasn't expecting so many people to be here," he said.
Though the lines were overwhelming, Poore said the number of people who came to the event was incredible and that she was happy to see the lines so long.
As for next year, Poore said there has been discussion of continuing Amazing Taste, but nothing is set in stone.
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