The world is full of many ingredients, cooking techniques and flavor profiles. Each class can research the common or traditional foods from a certain country, then choose a few to prepare and share at the main event. If there will be a large number of dishes available, provide guests with paper plates and encourage them to take a small sample of each.
Flags are the symbols of nations, regions, religions and groups. Have each student research the flag of a different nation. Let children look into the history of the flag, how it has changed over time and what each element of its design symbolizes. For large multicultural events, each child can create the flag she researched and wave it in a final parade that celebrates the countries of the world.
Many parts of the world have traditional outfits and dances worth researching. Give each child a country, region or ethnic group whose traditional clothing he can study or let groups of children practice traditional ethnic dances. Some children even own traditional costumes from another country and may be willing to dress in it for a multicultural school event. If the event is big enough, students can rehearse and showcase a variety of dances.
A celebration of world cultures is a prime opportunity for children to learn more about their own roots. Assign each child to interview her parents and relatives to learn more about what country or countries her ancestors lived in and what their lives were like. Children can study the reasons behind any emigrations in their family history or give a presentation on the occupations their ancestors had, the culture of their ancestral homelands or any family heirlooms that have been passed down.