A culturally diverse group of about 200 people gathered Tuesday night in the Newman Catholic Center to celebrate the end of Asian American Month with Asian cuisine, awards and entertainment.

The third annual Taste of Asia, which was sponsored by the NIU Asian American Center, allowed students to submerge themselves in Asian culture with the sounds and sights of song and dance performed by numerous Asian student groups.

“This event is important to us because it allows us to share our culture with others and get to know others in the community,” said Niko Daguio, a member of Kappa Pi Beta fraternity.

The event also allowed students to become familiar with many different Asian foods such as lo mein, vegetable fried rice, chicken served with vegetables and many other dishes.

The Vietnamese Student Association performed a cultural skit while other groups performed song and dance routines for the crowd.

“I really liked how everyone was representing the Asian community, and it wasn’t all about the Greek organizations,” said Vanessa Mendoza, a junior early education major.

In addition to the presentation of diverse food, the Newman Center was lined with numerous booths that provided students with information on the many Asian student organizations on campus.

“This event allows all the Asian organizations to get more exposure and has been a great way for us to celebrate the end of Asian American month,” said Kappa Pi Beta president Richmond Lim.

As part of the evening, seven Golden Fortune Cookie awards were given out to different Asian student organizations for the first time ever. The awards recognized groups for their involvement in campus activities and functions.

“This award lets us know that the various things we do for the community are recognized,” Kappa Pi Beta member Alvin Aranas said.