9/19: Global Flavors, Local Connection
The YMCA at Virginia Tech invites community members to experience an unforgettable evening of culture, cuisine, music, and connection at Global Flavors, Local Connection, a special Welcoming Week celebration inspired by the 2026 theme, Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect.
Taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, the event offers a unique opportunity for neighbors of all backgrounds to come together through the universal languages of food, music, and dance. Guests will enjoy international cuisine, cultural entertainment, and meaningful opportunities to build relationships while celebrating the diverse traditions that make the New River Valley a vibrant and welcoming community.
The evening begins with Food Sampling and Cultural Entertainment from 5:00-7:00 PM, featuring dishes from local restaurants representing cultures from around the world:
- India Garden – Indian Cuisine
- Next Door Bake Shop – Thai Cuisine
- Avellino’s – Italian Cuisine
- Our Daily Bread – French Cuisine
- YMCA Food Truck – Hispanic Cuisine
As guests sample a variety of global flavors, they will also learn about the cultural traditions and stories behind the foods, creating opportunities for conversation, understanding, and connection.
The program will feature an exciting lineup of live performances, including:
- The Itraab Music Ensemble, performing traditional and contemporary Arabic music
- The debut of a special original musical composition featuring recorded narratives from members of the international community, accompanied by harp performance by Aline
- Appalachian music and dance presented by Blacksburg Contra Dance
Following the cultural showcase, the celebration continues with a Community Contra Dance from 7:00-10:00 PM. Open to all ages and experience levels, the dance offers a fun and welcoming opportunity for participants to learn simple steps, meet new people, and experience one of Appalachia’s most beloved community traditions.
“Food and music have an incredible ability to bring people together,” said Dina Ali, Director of International Programs at the YMCA at Virginia Tech. “This event is about creating space for neighbors to share stories, celebrate cultures, and discover the connections that unite us. We hope everyone leaves feeling a greater sense of belonging and appreciation for the richness of our community.”
Global Flavors, Local Connection embodies the spirit of Welcoming Week by encouraging cultural exchange, strengthening relationships, and fostering a community where everyone feels valued and included. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, attendees will discover how food, traditions, and storytelling can help build bridges across cultures and backgrounds.
Event Details
Global Flavors, Local Connection
A Welcoming Week Celebration
Saturday, September 19, 2026
5:00-7:00 PM
Food Sampling & Cultural Entertainment
7:00-10:00 PM
Community Contra Dance
Hosted by: YMCA at Virginia Tech
Tickets Available Now: Purchase Tickets Here
Proceeds from the event support YMCA at Virginia Tech community programs that strengthen youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility throughout the New River Valley.
About Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week is a national celebration that brings together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and create more welcoming communities. The 2026 theme, Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect, highlights the power of personal stories and shared experiences to foster understanding and belonging.
About the YMCA at Virginia Tech – Founded in 1873, the mission of the YMCA at Virginia Tech is “building community through learning, leadership and service.” Through its diverse programs, the Y serves the community through four main programming areas: Community, Education, International and Student Programs. The YMCA at Virginia Tech provides a variety of services for those in need, creates volunteer opportunities open to all, provides leadership development and training opportunities for students and is one of our community’s leading non-profit agencies focusing on community education. With over 1,200 volunteers who give more than 20,000 hours to our diverse programs annually, the Y touches community members from all walks of life, while developing new leaders who will continue to make our community a better place. For more information about the YMCA at Virginia Tech and how your support is needed locally, please visit www.vtymca.org.
