Attendees of  the Cultural Communications Club’s annual festival on Friday had the ability to travel from the streets of France, to the fiestas in Mexico and all the way down under to the Australian Outback all inside the halls of Communications High School.

Hallways, locker pods and stairwells embodied the theme of “The Magic of Life” as students transformed the first floor into a cultural celebration including 16 countries. Teachers, students and their families, packed the halls and marveled at the effort of those who ran the event.

Freshman Julia Pardee of Freehold helped run Mexico’s display because of her love for Mexican food and culture.

“I had a great time working the booth since I got to interact with the ‘tourists,’” Pardee said. “Setting up was kind of crazy and extremely busy. Everyone worked hard and the booths looked so good.”

Countries were judged by a group of teachers for first, second and third place, with prizes being $100, $75 and $50, respectively. Switzerland’s cold weather-themed display took first place. Norway’s whimsically-lit showcase followed in second and Japan’s booth, complete with origami and candy sushi, took third.

After the international showcase concluded, visitors were treated to performances  featuring CHS students and siblings.

Performances ranged from folk rock to traditional Indian dance further immersed spectators in the celebration of culture. Fan favorite from November’s Friday Night Lights, “The Scooter Brothers,” comprised of seniors Tony Diaz, Ronak Nair, Landen Naphtali, Jacob Vernick and Tim Viola, performed “Tighten Up” by The Black Keys and “Go with the Flow” by Queens of the Stone Age.

Other acts included senior Brendan Gosse of Middletown’s self-choreographed contemporary solo to “Latch” by Sam Smith and sophomore Sarah Takash of Brielle’s contemporary ballet piece from Carmen.

Takash said that she enjoyed taking part in the event.

“It brings in such an array of talent. It’s great seeing everyone come together and appreciate each other’s talents,” Takash said.

Following the performances, attendees gathered in the cafeteria for a buffet of international foods such as beans and rice, churros and butter cookies. The Cultural Communications Club adviser Sabina Campbell was thankful for those who made the buffet possible.

“We have a few restaurants that have donated food this year. However, most food donations are from parents,” Campbell said.

All profits from the event went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This year’s profits were estimated at $1,600, a record for the event, according to Campbell.

Freshman Matt Miller of Wall was impressed by his first Cultural festival.

“Everyone was so into the countries. There were such fantastic foods. The performers were talented and enthusiastic as well,” Miller said. “Ultimately, I really enjoyed myself and everyone seemed to be having fun.”