WUIS International Festival Day 2026

On Friday afternoon, WUIS primary students came together for International Festival Day. Each grade focused on a different country, taking part in stories, art, games and hands-on activities that brought its traditions to life.

The afternoon began with a whole-primary parade. Dressed in costumes inspired by their chosen countries, children filled the campus with colour and excitement, setting the tone for a celebration of cultural diversity.

Grade 1 – India: The Festival of Light

For Grade 1, India’s Festival of Light provided a window into traditions of welcome, good wishes and celebration. Stories, decorative art and food offered different ways to experience these customs.The story of Prince Rama introduced a tale of courage and good triumphing over evil.

Using coloured chalk, the children drew Kolam patterns and learned how these designs can welcome visitors and convey good wishes.

They also made samosas, folding pastry around a filling of potatoes and spices to create triangular snacks.

Grade 2 – United States: Creativity and Community Spirit

In Grade 2, the focus turned to traditions in the United States, where costumes, decorations and sharing can bring communities together. Creative activities gave children an opportunity to join in these customs themselves.Inspired by American customs, the children made decorations and craft pieces of their own.

Dressing up and exchanging small treats added a social element to the festivities, encouraging kindness and consideration for others.

Grade 3 – Mexico: Color, Music, and Celebration

Grade 3’s activities took inspiration from Mexican traditions, especially the role of colour, remembrance and family in festive occasions. Art and food helped bring these ideas into focus.The children crafted paper marigolds and learned about the flowers’ links to remembering loved ones and honouring family traditions.

They also prepared flag-themed snacks, connecting Mexico’s national colours with a hands-on food activity.

Grade 4 – South Africa: Wildlife and National Symbols

South Africa was the focus for Grade 4, with lessons centred on geography, wildlife and national symbols. Discussion, craftwork and games gave the children several ways to engage with what they learned.

After finding South Africa at the southern tip of the continent, the class examined its flag and discussed how its design can symbolise different groups coming together. They then made flags using coloured paper.The class then met the Big Five—the African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros—studying their characteristics and habits while considering the threats faced by rhinos.

A lively game of snakes and ladders rounded off the wildlife activities.

Grade 5 – Romania: Culture Castles and Legends

Grade 5 stepped into Romania’s world of castles, history and legends.A quiz invited the class to separate fact from fiction by comparing the historical ruler Vlad the Impaler with the fictional Count Dracula. Students studied clues and exchanged ideas about how real figures and places can inspire stories.

Next came Escape from Dracula’s Castle, a team puzzle challenge involving patterns, maps and codes. Careful observation and discussion helped groups work their way towards the final gate.

Grade 6 – Brazil: Rhythm, Art, and Celebration

For Grade 6, Brazil provided a starting point for learning about Carnival and cultural identity. The class considered how festivals express pride in a community and drew comparisons with celebrations in China.Festival videos and reading materials prompted discussion about similarities and differences between Brazil and China. Students also investigated geography, climate, food, the national flag and football.

Inspired by the festival, students designed circular badges with distinctive motifs, bold shapes and contrasting colours.

More than a celebration, International Festival Day gave children the chance to experience the traditions and customs of countries around the world. It brought our school community together and encouraged curiosity, cultural understanding and respect for the many ways people live and celebrate.