The city of Miyoshi, Hiroshima, hosted the 2025 Year-End 31th Party (Potluck Party) on Sunday, 7 December 2025, at the Tokaichi Kinsai Center. Organized by Evergreen Grassroots Group (EGG), AFO, and Miyoshi International Cultural Exchange, the event brought together approximately 100 participants, including foreign residents and local Japanese citizens living in Miyoshi. This annual tradition, which EGG has carried out since its establishment in 1991, continues to strengthen cross-cultural understanding within the community.

The celebration aimed to mark the end of the year while fostering meaningful interactions among Miyoshi’s diverse residents. As the number of international families and students in the region continues to grow, the event serves as a bridge for communication, friendship, and cultural appreciation. By creating an informal and friendly environment, the organizers hoped to deepen mutual respect between foreign residents and Japanese society.

One of the main objectives of the gathering was to introduce cultural traditions brought by residents from various countries. Participants were encouraged to share dishes, stories, performances, and experiences that reflect their heritage. This exchange allowed attendees to gain a better understanding of the multicultural identities present in Miyoshi, contributing to stronger community cohesion.

The event featured a wide range of activities, beginning with a lively potluck session where participants brought homemade food that represented their national cuisines. Tables were filled with dishes from multiple regions, allowing everyone to explore new flavors and learn about culinary traditions from around the world.

Cultural performances highlighted the creative talents of the participants. Singing, dancing, and magic shows brought excitement to the venue, while a special chorus singing and group dance session encouraged everyone to join in. These performances provided a platform for individuals of different backgrounds to express cultural pride and celebrate diversity in a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.

The potluck party also included a gift-exchange session that sparked laughter and interaction among participants. Additionally, the organizers conducted a social donation drive, inviting guests to contribute to humanitarian causes as part of the year-end spirit of giving. This initiative emphasized the importance of compassion and community support across cultural boundaries.

Indonesia made a meaningful contribution to the event by presenting the Tari Saman, a famous traditional dance from Aceh. The performance captivated the audience with its rhythmic movements and strong message of unity, perfectly aligning with the theme of the celebration. Indonesian participants also initiated a solidarity donation campaign to support victims of natural disasters in Sumatra, reflecting the spirit of empathy and global citizenship.

Overall, the 2025 Year-End 31st Potluck Party successfully strengthened international friendship in Miyoshi. By providing a space where cultural exchange, celebration, and community spirit could flourish, the event reaffirmed the city’s commitment to inclusivity and harmony. As Miyoshi continues to welcome diverse residents, activities like this remain vital in nurturing understanding, appreciation, and lasting connections among its multicultural community.