The second annual Culture Night will take place on February 17th, 2024 from 5 to 7 pm. This event is being planned and organized by Mayo students and staff, who are working very hard to create a fun, meaningful, and memorable experience. Last year, it was such a success that many who missed it wished they could have attended. It would be a shame to miss out on this great event, two years in a row.

The idea for Culture Night was inspired by a successful Culture Day held at Mayo High School two years ago. Students set up tables full of displays revealing culturally significant items. During the whole day students got the chance to get to know one another’s cultures through foods, clothing, and dances. A proposal for a Culture Night originated when the Mayo Equity Team board got together to talk about the positives and negatives of that first event. From seeing videos of other schools doing a culture night on social media the students knew it would be an incredible event. 

Months of preparation went into making this event happen. Students started by making posters and spreading the word. “Everyone on the board does a really good job on getting information sent out and collecting all the people who want to perform,” Mrs. Alexander said.  Quickly, eager students began to sign up and gathered in groups to start practicing. Since most of this year’s performers were involved in it last year, they got right to work. From helping students find clothes to providing them with speakers and classrooms to practice in, Mayo staff members are truly the heroes of this event. “This year we are trying to be more organized” Helen Girma said. 

The organizers have been looking at every negative and positive aspect of last year’s event. This year many changes will be made in order to make sure that Culture Night runs smoothly. There will be a group of volunteers helping with lights, keeping things running smoothly backstage, passing out food, cleaning up, and answering questions the attendees may have. 

The first Culture Night was extremely successful. About 300 people showed up to show their support. “I know we had a pretty packed auditorium with people all over the community who came to watch the performers share aspects of their culture that they don’t always get to share,” Mrs Alexander said. Culture night’s purpose is to educate, spread awareness, and most importantly, to get all groups of students to come together and have a good time. Therefore, make sure to attend on February 17th from 5 to 7 pm, to watch your fellow Spartans showcase their culture and to have the time of your life enjoying the fantastic lineup of food, performances, and entertainment.