ExperienceGuide2024 - 32

Japan House
Experience Our Culture
In the Champaign-Urbana area, you'll discover cultures
and heritage that span the globe, from Illinois' largest
Amish settlement to cultural centers that lift up our
diverse student population.
Diwali on the Quad
FIND PEACE AT THE JAPAN HOUSE
Discover the way of tea, the art of Ikebana, or the meaningful Japanese
gardens at the Japan House at the University of Illinois. This peaceful
retreat will teach you to be introspective as you learn about Japanese
culture through tea ceremonies, classes, performances, and events. The
serene gardens surrounding the center can be enjoyed year-round, with
the Sakura (cherry blossoms) coming to life in April, showing that spring is
upon us.
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CULTURAL CENTERS
Each year, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has over 20,000
students who belong to diverse cultures. From our Black, Native American,
and Latina/o students to our international population, these students are
part of cultural houses that support their needs and offer engagement
opportunities.
The Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center serves the
Afro-American population, offering programs such as Food for the Soul, a
weekly series with discussion topics relevant to the African Diaspora.
La Casa Cultural Latina, celebrating 50 years on campus, empowers
Latina/o students and offers events throughout the year, including
cultural celebrations for Dia de los Muertos and Los Posadas and lunch
discussions for campus and community.
In November, the Native American House invites students and the
community to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day and Native American
Heritage Month with lectures, artist talks, and workshops that support our
Indigenous population.
Over 40% of all University of Illinois students are of Asian descent. The
Asian American Cultural Center celebrates the many rich cultures
spanning the continent. Diwali, a South Asian festival of lights, is celebrated
in autumn, lighting up the Quad. The Lunar New Year engages the
community with a themed dinner, performances, and outreach in area
schools.
Amish Country
AMISH COUNTRY
South of Champaign-Urbana, you'll see a shift in the scenery
when you see a horse and buggy with a family traveling down
the road. You've reached the heart of Illinois' Amish country,
where the pace is a little slower. Throughout the towns of
Tuscola, Arcola, Arthur, and Sullivan, you'll find a welcoming
population ready to introduce you to their culture. Learn
how buggies are made, shop from the fine artisans in the
woodworking shops or along their quilt trail, pick up homemade
goods and food, go antiquing, and find local art. Most of all,
take your time to learn. Welcome centers in Arcola, located in
the train depot, and Arthur in their downtown, will direct you to
Amish-owned businesses. Self-guided tours through Arthur will
help you navigate the sights and share the history and lore of
the area.
The Illinois Amish Heritage Center in Arthur gives you a
glimpse into Amish life with historic homes dating back to 1865,
a school, and an old barn on site.
A variety of festivals and events throughout the year allow for
further engagement. Don't miss the Strawberry Jam Festival
each June, the 4th of July celebration in Arthur, held the last
Saturday of June, the Arthur Cheese Festival and the Arcola
Broomcorn Festival in September, alongside holiday events in
November and December.
32 Official Champaign-Urbana Area Experience Guide

https://japanhouse.illinois.edu/ https://bnaacc.illinois.edu/ https://lacasa.illinois.edu/ https://nah.illinois.edu/ https://www.illinoisamish.org/ https://aacc.illinois.edu/ https://arthurfestivals.com/index.php/arthurs-strawberry-jam/ https://arthurcheesefestival.com/wpcheese/ https://www.arcolachamber.com/broomcorn-festival https://www.arcolachamber.com/broomcorn-festival

ExperienceGuide2024

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