Inspired by the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this year’s Tour of the Globe is themed “Passport to Play.”

The celebration will explore how people around the world connect through sports and games. While many countries share a love for the same games, how people approach play can vary depending on their cultures, traditions and communities. Participating students will have the opportunity to showcase sports and games that are meaningful to their home countries.

For Chiemi Barriga Fujihara, an international affairs graduate student, Tour of the Globe was an opportunity to share Peruvian culture with the Springfield community.

At last year’s event, Fujihara helped introduce visitors to traditional Peruvian food and beverages, including chicha, potatoes and salsas. Beyond introducing people to new foods and traditions, the experience created opportunities for meaningful conversations about home, identity and culture. She describes Tour of the Globe as a bridge between international students and the community they now call home.

Daezia Smith, with Missouri State’s office of global education and engagement, says the event gives international students a voice in the Springfield community while creating opportunities for cultural learning and connection.

Tour of the Globe is free, family-friendly and open to the public.

Experience Tour of the Globe

Read the audio transcript