YMCA of the Rockies Cultural Fair

Exchange visitors programs are a key foreign policy initiative, welcoming foreigners into the United States to learn about, immerse themselves in, and develop appreciation for the American culture. Equally important, the program provides Americans the opportunity to create connections with foreign visitors and learn about their unique cultures, expanding their worldview, inspiring interest to explore beyond our borders, and honing intercultural competency skills.

YMCA of the Rockies, a sprawling resort blended into the landscape at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, is an exemplary exchange visitor program host employer in their pursuit of ensuring the program objectives are met. YMCA of the Rockies hosts a bi-annual Cultural Fair to celebrate the diversity of their exchange visitors and provide a platform for them to share about their culture with Americans.

The Winter 2025 Cultural Fair featured displays from fifteen countries representing their Summer Work and Travel, Intern, and Trainee exchange visitors. Exchange visitors designed a poster board exhibiting the geography, cuisine, clothing, and traditions of their home country, with some displays including interactive elements. For example, Mexico created a Lucha libre photo stand-in, Costa Rica served rice, and Jamaica invited guests to play a board game. Cultural representatives presented the information to attendees that included exchange visitors, YMCA staff, and Estes Park community members. Following the display presentations, exchange visitors performed cultural songs and dances.

Cultural fairs are an entertaining, meaningful way to connect exchange visitors and Americans, and LifeTRAVELED encourages all exchange visitor host employers to implement similar events to promote global understanding and appreciation.