Xiaohongshu
We’re taking over the newly developed Quad for a four-day celebration as part of our annual International Festival.
We're bringing students from all across the world to the centre of campus to celebrate UCL's cultural diversity. With over 55,000 students, we're proud to be defined by such a broad range of nationalities, where our cultural curiosity never ends and life-long friendships are made.
Join us from Monday 23 - Thursday 26 February for an immersive experience, including food, performances, workshops, and talks as we celebrate our global community right here in Bloomsbury.
Across all four days, our newly refurbished Quad, North and South Cloisters will be filled with string lights and lanterns, cosy seating with blankets and beanbags, and a laid-back, photo-worthy atmosphere that invites you to stop by, even if you were just passing through between lectures.
Each day will carry a different theme, so if you decide to come for one afternoon or for all three days, there’s always something exciting happening. Take a look at the highlights below...
Monday 22 February
Celebrate the Year of The Horse
This year, come and celebrate the Year of The Horse on Monday 22 February, kicking off the International Festival period. The day will feature traditional performances such as the dragon dance alongside the UCL Asian Food and Culture Fair, organised by the Malaysian Society in collaboration with other cultural and regional societies across UCL. There will also be creative activities running throughout the day, including henna.
Tuesday 24 February
Explore different cultures
Tuesday will be all about community, with a cultural fair where you can reconnect with societies, sign up for new ones, and try out activities you might not have had the chance to earlier in the year. There will also be an Arab and North African iftar organised by student societies to offer a welcoming space to share food and spend time together.
Wednesday 25 February
Get creative
Wednesday focuses on wellbeing, getting creative, and making connections. You can also expect music and cultural activities led by student societies, including a kirtan session organised by the Krishna Consciousness society, as well as film screenings and relaxed social spaces to unwind with friends.
Thursday 26 February
Try something new
If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to try something new, Thursday is all about learning a craft or picking up a new skill. Throughout the day, there will be workshops and sessions led by student groups, from cycling workshops and K-pop related activities to language and cultural learning spaces and international film screenings.
Across all days of the festival, there will also be a market running in the quad, where you can browse and buy handmade jewellery, illustrations, ceramics, and more. It’s the perfect place to pick up a gift, support student and independent creatives, or simply have a wander between activities.
What’s more fun than our Students' Union World Cup? Bringing together teams from across UCL, this football tournament is all about friendly competition and cheering from the sidelines with your friends. Whether you’re playing, supporting your society, or just there for the atmosphere, it’s one of those moments where the whole campus comes together. Expect big energy, big celebrations, and plenty of reasons to stick around and watch a few matches.
If fashion is more your thing, you won’t want to miss the International Fashion Show. This is a celebration of style, culture, and self expression, with students showcasing outfits inspired by their heritage, traditions, and personal creativity. The fashion show is about telling stories and celebrating the rich diversity at UCL.
And of course, there will be food, and that’s why you will be able to find food trucks dotted all around the main quad. You will have the opportunity to try out meals and drinks from all over the world. There will also be plenty of seating around the space, so you can chill and enjoy the atmosphere without needing to rush off.
What we’re trying to say is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an international or home student, new to UCL or nearing the end of your degree, it’s a chance to feel connected, inspired and part of a wider community. So, save the date, bring your friends, grab a hot drink, or just enjoy the atmosphere. This is your campus, your community, and your festival. We hope to see you there!
What's next?
- Find and book onto an event by visiting the International Festival page
- Feeing curious and looking to immerse yourself into different cultures at UCL? Our recipe book Taste's Like Home is made by students, for students, and brings together 21 dishes from 17 countries passed down through the generations. Purchase your copy today.
- If you're looking to lead our international community, why not put yourself forward at the International Students Officer in the Leadership Race. Nominations close 5 March. Nominate yourself today.