Hundreds of University of Arkansas at Little Rock students, employees, and families will gather for an international Thanksgiving celebration on Nov. 16.

The annual dinner is a tradition of International Celebration Week, which runs Nov. 14-17 at UALR. The week of events strengthens awareness of national cultures and encourages interaction between diverse student organizations and departments on campus.

The Thanksgiving celebration provides a free meal for those who cannot travel home for the holiday. The event will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the Donaghey Student Center Ledbetter Hall. Reserve tickets by stopping by Donaghey Student Center Room 216.

International Celebration Week will kickoff with the International Middle Eastern “Short” Film Festival from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 14 in the Donaghey Student Center Ledbetter Hall. The festival will feature documentaries and films that focus on a variety of contemporary issues. A brief commentary and discussion will follow each film. Snacks will be provided.

International Celebration Day will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, in the Donaghey Student Center Ledbetter Hall. With interactive displays, intercultural communication posters, music, and food, this fun-filled event will feature students representing their cultures and discussing worldwide career and volunteer opportunities. Complete the International Celebration day online form to participate.

Students can learn about study abroad opportunities and apply for a passport during the Study Abroad-Passport to the World event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 16 in  the Donaghey Student Center Ledbetter C.

To wrap up the week, two interfaith dialog lunches will take place from noon to 1 p.m. Nov. 16 and 12:05 to 1:15 p.m. Nov. 17. This event, sponsored by the Chancellor’s Leadership Corps, will provide students with the opportunity to understand the faith and worldviews of other students. To register for the event, please complete the International Celebration Week form.

For more information on International Celebration week, contact Jenny Dodson at 501.569.3308 or jmdodson@ualr.edu or Dr. Gerald Driskill at 501.569.3158 or gwdriskill@ualr.edu.