Columbia International Festival Celebrates 30th Year April 5-6th

COLUMBIA, S.C., March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 Columbia International Festival will return to the South Carolina State Fairgrounds on April 5 and 6. This year, the festival will celebrate its 30th anniversary. It will offer free parking and uphold the tradition of honoring South Carolina’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

“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, a non-profit organization. “More than 100 countries will be represented in our National Exhibits.”

Aluri mentioned that this year’s festival is more affordable than ever, thanks to the addition of free parking at the fairgrounds and the ongoing discount for advance online ticket purchases. Tickets can be purchased online at cifonline.org and through Cola Daily Tickets, which offers a $3 discount off box office prices until April 1st.

“One of the festival’s signature events, the Parade of Nations, will present a fantastic spectacle in the Cantey Building on Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m. After this, the Adult International Fashion Show, featuring vibrant designs, will take place at 4 p.m. on Saturday, while the Children’s Fashion Show is planned for Sunday at 4 p.m.,” Aluri said.  

Since 2025 marks the festival’s thirtieth year, the emphasis will be on celebrating three decades of bringing the many cultures that call South Carolina home under one roof.

Aluri mentioned that over 20 vendors will prepare and serve dishes from various cultures. The festival emphasizes sustainability, and the International Food Court utilizes eco-friendly packaging.

This year’s festival hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, and from noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 6. 

Box Office Ticket Prices:    

• $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

Additional Information:

For the safety of all guests, only clear bags will be allowed. Most purchases at the festival are cash only. Visit cifonline.org for complete festival details. The Columbia International Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting the diversity of the South Carolina Midlands.   

Contact: Meredith Edwards
(803) 799-3452

SOURCE Columbia International Festival