On Sept. 18, the University of Utah Asia Campus introduced a new tradition in Songdo, Incheon: the first-ever Crimson Festival. The festival drew inspiration from the U’s well-known Crimson Night in Salt Lake City. Named after the university’s brand color, Crimson Red, it aimed to strengthen school pride and bring the community together.
The festival welcomed not only Utah Asia Campus students, but also students from other universities at Incheon Global Campus, local middle and high schools and residents from across Incheon. More than 650 people gathered for an afternoon of cultural exchange, student-led activities and family friendly fun.
Across 20 booths, participants enjoyed everything from sports club activities in tennis, baseball and soccer to face painting, caricatures and photo booths. Visitors also explored counseling and career advising sessions, learned from the International Student Diplomats, and sampled treats from food trucks and ice cream stands. An inflatable playground added to the festive mood. Student government and campus clubs led the planning and operations, showcasing the creativity and initiative of the Utah Asia Campus students.
“The Crimson Festival was intended not just as a campus event, but as a platform for students and the local community to come together,” said Maria Martinez, assistant dean of students at the University of Utah Asia Campus. “Moving forward, we will continue to provide programs that strengthen not only global education but also our ties with the local community.”