CONNORVILLE — Buckeye Local High School’s Foreign Language Club is taking a look back as it prepares for the 19th Annual International Culture Fair.

This year’s event, which is themed “Preserving the Past,” is set for 5-8 p.m. Feb. 22 and will include plenty of food and festivities.

Bonnie Soos, who shares co-advisory duties with Savana Granat, said admission is free but food-tasting tickets will be sold to sample fare from around the world.

Tables will dot the commons area featuring exhibits from the Americas and Europe to Asia and beyond, while students will provide ethnic dishes based upon the countries they represent. The food tasting will occur from 5-7 p.m. followed by a theatrical performance in the theater at 8 p.m.

“Our foreign language club officers chose the theme because they love history,” Soos said. “There will be food tasting and cultural displays from 40 different countries, live international music by Jason Garczyk, children’s activities, theatrical performances and a 50-50 raffle.”

She added that about 100 club members will participate by creating the displays, dressing as historical figures and working at the fair.

“Each group is asked to construct a historical landmark that represents their country and the public will be judging their favorite structure, along with their favorite display and international cuisine.”

Proceeds from the food tasting and raffle support field trips and cultural events for the student organization.

The culture fair has drawn hundreds of people each year, and hopefully the upcoming festivities will include a similar response.

“This is such a huge community event and there’s definitely a few hundred people in attendance. It gets bigger each year and there is a constant line at the door.”

Soos concluded that the event has been held for nearly two decades and organizers were thankful for the ongoing support.

“I, along with my former colleagues, began it in 2005 and I am very proud of what it has become. It is a BLHS tradition,” she said.

“I thank the community for their constant support over the years. I, along with my co-worker/co-advisor, Savana Granat, are very excited to see how this year’s fair takes shape. Our club members do an amazing job every year. We love their enthusiasm, creativity and their passion towards culture.”