(SIS) — Saipan International School recently held its annual International Thanksgiving Feast, a tradition that brings together students, families, and friends to celebrate the many cultures that make up the school community. Each country or ethnic group contributed a special dish, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere for everyone who attended.
Many shared the feeling that we all have a place we miss — whether it’s far away or right around the corner. This celebration gave families the chance to bring a little piece of that special place to SIS and share it with others through the foods and traditions they love.
While parents and faculty help organize the event, the school highlights that students play a major part in making the feast happen. Students helped prepare the campus, set up tables and chairs, created decorations, and made sure all plans were followed. Their teamwork and leadership were evident throughout the day.
This year’s celebration was especially exciting because it took place for the first time in the school’s Outdoor Facility — a covered court large enough to comfortably host more than 400 people. The venue was bright and colorful, with each cultural group proudly showcasing its heritage.
The variety of dishes was impressive. The table representing the United States featured turkey, ham, and desserts. Families from the Philippines brought roasted pig, lumpia, puto, pancit, barbecue sticks, and much more. Pacific Island dishes included red rice, chicken kelaguen, titiyas, coconut dishes, and corn soup. The Korean community shared bulgogi, kimchi rice, savory pancakes, and barbecue. European families offered pasta, Russian crepes, and teas. Peru contributed shrimp ceviche, cilantro rice, and its popular Pollo a la Brasa con Ají Verde. Japanese families brought assorted sushi, while the Chinese community served dumplings, siopao, siomai, orange chicken, roasted pig, and vegetable dishes.
“It was a wonderful day filled with great food, good company, and a real appreciation for the diversity that strengthens our community,” said SIS Headmaster Martin Jambor. “We’re grateful to our parents, students, and staff for making it all possible.”
Amie McRoberts also recognized the students’ hard work, praising their dedication to preparing the event and creating an unforgettable experience for guests.
Saipan International School thanks everyone who contributed to this year’s International Thanksgiving Feast and looks forward to continuing this meaningful tradition.
