The Multicultural Festival grew out of years of small potlucks hosted for ENL families at Sand Creek, when current DEI Coordinator, April Mlambi, first began teaching ENL a decade ago. These potlucks became so popular that many native English-speaking students and teachers began approaching Mlambi, wanting to attend and/or participate by sharing their cultural heritage as well.

Our first school-wide Multicultural Festival was held in 2017 in the Sand Creek cafeteria, and quickly outgrew the space—moving into the gymnasium in 2018, which soon became too small as well. Each year, more and more families and community members expressed interest in participating and attending. In 2019, the festival was relocated to the high school’s multi-use gymnasium, officially becoming a district-wide event. Since then, the Multicultural Festival has evolved into a beloved celebration of culture and community.

The festival continues to grow and adapt, with new culture booths, attractions, and performances added each time. After the 2023 event, and in response to the increasing size and scope, the district shifted the festival to a biannual schedule, allowing for expanded planning and participation.

“It gives me so much joy to see our school community come together to celebrate our diversity. Our students are so excited to learn more about each other's cultures as well as continuing to explore their own,” says Mlambi. “I am grateful for the tremendous support that our district leadership has provided to help us continue to grow this event, as well as the many students and staff who volunteer their time and energy to plan and put on this event,” she adds.

The next Multicultural Festival will be held in Spring 2027 at Colonie Central High School. We look forward to welcoming you to this vibrant celebration of Colonie’s culture of togetherness.