The 2025 International Heritage Festival in Willmar, MN was an unforgettable evening of community spirit, cultural pride, and joyful celebration. Held on Friday, April 25 at the Willmar Senior High School Auditorium and Commons, the event welcomed over 900 attendees to experience a whirlwind tour of global traditions.
A Taste of the World and the Heart of the Community
Guests were treated to flavorful food samples from around the world, with generous community members sharing bites that represented their cultures. The aromas and tastes told stories of heritage and hospitality, offering a flavorful introduction to the festival’s global theme.
Spotlight on “Edu-tainment”: A Dynamic Live Performance Showcase
The true heart of the festival was its robust edu-tainment schedule, featuring 19 vibrant performances that celebrated the rich cultural mosaic of Willmar. From traditional dances to musical numbers and fashion shows, every act brought unique energy and beauty to the stage.
Final schedule highlights included:
- Welcome by MC Mesay Doyamo (with student council backup support)
- Mayor Reese delivering opening remarks
- Parade of Flags featuring nations represented by community members
- Mexican Folkloric Dancers and multiple regional Mexican dances
- Somali Dance and Poetry, including kaaly huno, aan mushano, and buraanbur
- Fashion Shows representing Somali, Karen, Philippines, Guatemalan, Honduran, and a special Quince Dress Fashion Show
- Cultural Music, including the Chilean Cimarrón Batucad Drumming, a Karen musical performance, and a soulful Columbian song
- Honduran Punta Dances and a Haitian dance that energized the crowd
- Somali artist Hersi Sabir, who performed two captivating songs
To streamline the program and enhance flow, several fashion shows were thoughtfully grouped by region, reducing transitions and enriching the audience experience.
A Community Effort Made Possible by Many
The event’s success was made possible through the dedication of volunteers, performers, organizers, and local supporters. The festival was proudly sponsored by:
- Willmar Lakes Area Vision 2040
- Willmar Area Community Foundation
- City of Willmar
- Southwest Initiative Foundation
- Willmar Rotary
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN Center for Racial & Health Equity
- Willmar Public School District
- PrimeWest Health
- Willmar Area Arts Council
Building Bridges Through Culture
The International Heritage Festival Willmar 2025 proved once again that celebrating diversity strengthens community bonds. Attendees left feeling inspired, connected, and proud of the multicultural fabric that defines the Willmar area.
Stay tuned with Willmar Lakes Area Vision 2040 for more events that celebrate who we are together.