UI events and programs increase awareness, broaden horizons, and inspire appreciation for the many different expressions of cultures in our world. Our events fall into three main categories:

Cultural

Cultural-themed events invite Upstate residents into a new world of sights, tastes, sounds, arts, and traditions. With events catered to almost any crowd, you will learn about cultures of the world through first-hand experience.

World Affairs

Be aware and engage in conversation about the world’s most pressing issues by attending World Affairs events. As an official World Affairs Councils of America affiliate, Upstate International engages globally-minded South Carolinians directly with each other and with elected officials, civic leaders and professionals from around the world.

International Business

As Greenville becomes the city of our dreams, it is also becoming the city of the dreams of many nations. In the last twenty years, this area has seen significant growth, attracting over 350 companies from around the world. UI fosters opportunities to form global connections with international business and commerce professionals.

 Events

Murder at Pyramids

Upstate International Month Kick Off Party

The official opening event for Upstate International Month, varies year to year and has included  everything from our International Galas, and our Caliente Cuba: A Night of Hot Art & Cool Culture to our International Trivia Night of Mind Madness and more. Whatever the event, we guarantee a sensational night replete with customs, culture, and cuisine!

This year’s event will be a Murder Mystery Party! Join us at Zen for a night of fun where you can come dressed in character and socialize all while trying to find out who committed murder on a train. Did the butler do it? Or was it the actress, the professor, or even the detective? It is up to you to find out…

For more information CLICK HERE

America and the World Lecture Series

An informal Lunch & Learn lecture series on America, our allies and our enemies, our difficult diplomatic relationships, the status of cultures and countries, and the current track of U.S. relations that keeps us all guessing.   The whole world is connected and what happens abroad can have major ramifications here at home. Cultural and economic changes happening on the other side of the globe affect our safety and impact us economically.  With nearly 460 companies representing 36 countries here in the Upstate, it is important that we stay abreast of global issues that might impact us.  Each year, generally September through May, The World Affairs Council Upstate, a program of Upstate International, offers a monthly lecture series that focuses on American Foreign Policy as it relates to different parts of the world.

Salsa at Sunset

A summer sensation, Salsa at Sunset brings live Latin music and dancing to the Upstate community. No prior experience in dancing is required for this outdoor family event held in downtown Greenville.  Whether you choose to dance or sit and enjoy the music, the energetic atmosphere will have your toes tapping.

Passport to Decadence

During this evening of international delights, guests have the chance to feast on desserts, sip on wines, and enjoy myriad other treats from around the globe. Hosted by the International Women’s Club, the evening features homemade delights from more than 15 countries.

Beaujolais Nouveau

While most red wines improve with age, the handpicked wine from the Beaujolais region of France is best enjoyed fresh. To celebrate the end of harvest season, we join the French this evening to indulge in this luxurious young wine and a delectable French meal.

Religious Traditions

Have you ever wanted to visit a Mosque? A Buddhist temple? A Synagogue? Have you ever wondered how other world religions worship or celebrate their culture? Many people are curious about religious traditions but are reluctant to inquire for fear of offending a person of another culture. Our series takes you to visit and learn about these traditions right here in the Upstate.

Glüehwein Party

A celebration of the Christmas season in traditional German style, the Glüehwein Party is a festive experience full of great German food and the spiced red wine special to this time of year. This family-friendly evening is a perfect start to the holiday season.

Robert Burns Evening (A Partner Event)

A night dedicated to the celebration of the poetic melody of Robert Burns, guests are treated to authentic Scottish food and drink while delighting in recitations of Burns’s poetry.

Global Humanitarian Outreach

A broad spectrum of international humanitarian aid stems from South Carolina, yet few know about its scope, impact, or how to help. Global Humanitarian Outreach luncheons bring in speakers who are currently addressing issues on things such as contaminated water, preventable childhood deaths, malnutrition, housing shortages, and other basic human needs.

The Galette des Rois, or King’s Cake Celebration

The “Galette des Rois” is a way for the French community to celebrate the Epiphany, or the arrival of the Three Wise Men (“Magi.”)  In France, every year the people gather pour tirer les rois, to find the kings.  We continue the tradition at Upstate International. The traditional galette is cut into slices and in one of the slices is a special charm.  The person who gets the slice with the lucky charm becomes ‘King for the day.’

Crêpe Day

A popular French treat, crêpes can be enjoyed savory or sweet, but they are best enjoyed in the company of fellow members of Upstate International.