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Student Day is Friday April 10th, 2026 9AM to 3PM
The International Festival of Minnesota (IFest-MN) is a revitalized celebration of global heritage, cultural exchange, and community connection. Built on the legacy of the Festival of Nations and reimagined for a new generation, IFest-MN is committed to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building a more connected future—together.
IFest-MN Board
Basil Ajuo – CEO – Minnesota Africans United.
Kevin Barton– Land O’ Lakes
Carolina Maranon-Cobos – Programming manager for the Institute of Advanced Study, U of M.
John Bennett – 21st Century Bank
Liz Raimann – Fox Tax Services.
Mark Ritchie– Global Minnesota (Retired)
Christine Noonan – MN State Fair
Marvin Martin
Sung Ja Shin – Minnesota Humanities Center
Dr Darling Yaj – Hmong Council 18
IFest Staff
Steve Heckler, Executive Director. Manages and oversees the Legacy-funded project.
CONTACT: ifestmn at gmail.com
Courtney Silvan – Director of Operations
