At The International School of Texas, traditions are about bringing our community together and recognizing our school as Austin’s best for IB learning, student growth, and family connection. Our traditions and events create opportunities for students, families, and staff to connect, celebrate, and learn alongside one another. From spirited competitions to cultural celebrations, IST traditions build lasting memories and strengthen the sense of belonging that defines our school. Explore some of our signature events and traditions below!
Each year, IST welcomes Native American Powwow dancers to campus for an engaging cultural celebration that honors the rich traditions and heritage of Indigenous peoples. Through traditional dance, music, storytelling, and interactive presentations, students gain a deeper appreciation for Native American history, customs, and the importance of preserving cultural traditions. This meaningful experience reflects IST's commitment to fostering global perspectives, cultural understanding, and respect for diverse communities.
Held each year on the Friday before Thanksgiving Break, IST's International Harvest Festival is a cherished community tradition that brings students, families, and faculty together for a global carry-in feast. Families share favorite dishes representing their cultures and traditions, creating an opportunity tot celebrate the incredible diversity of the IST community while enjoying food, fellowship, and meaningful connections. This joyful gathering reflects IST's belief that some of the strongest communities are built by sharing stories, traditions, and a meal together.
Our Under the Oaks Forums present quarterly opportunities for parents to connect with school leadership, hear from guest speakers, participate in a book study, and even learn about how to support students of all ages. These forums are a highlight of parent connection and growth.
Our Parent Breakfasts are occasional opportunities to stop by for some coffee and breakfast treats after morning drop off, allowing you the chance to start your day with conversation and community.
A kickoff event in September for parents to build friendships within the IST community.
IST's Spirit Week brings the school community together through a week of creative themed dress-up days planned by the Student Council. Students, faculty, and staff show their school spirit while building camaraderie, celebrating individuality, and enjoying friendly House competition. The week culminates in an energetic, all-school Pep Rally, where the community gathers to cheer on their Houses, celebrate achievements, and play fun games and minute-to-win-it style challenges. The Pep Rally showcases the pride and enthusiasm that make IST such a vibrant place to learn and grow.
Annually, IST celebrates Holi, the vibrant Festival of Colors, giving students the opportunity to experience one of India's most joyful cultural traditions. Parent volunteers share the history, traditions, and significance of Holi before students, faculty, staff, and families participate in the colorful celebration together. This beloved annual event fosters cultural appreciation, global understanding, and the joyful spirit of community that defines an IST education.
Held each year during the week leading up to Thanksgiving Break, IST's Annual Food Drive is a school-wide House competition that benefits the Central Texas Food Bank. Students and families come together to collect nonperishable food times, earning House points while making a meaningful impact on neighbors in need in Austin and Central Texas. This cherished tradition reinforces the values of compassion, service, and community, inspiring students to make a difference both on campus and beyond.
Each year, IST welcomes a local Dragon Dance troupe to campus to celebrate Lunar New Year, giving students an exciting opportunity to experience one of Asia's most cherished cultural traditions firsthand. Through a vibrant performance, music, and storytelling, students depend their understanding of this global celebration while celebrating the diversity that makes the IST community unique.
A spirited field day where students compete in challenges, games, and races while showing teamwork and school pride. Sports Day is one of IST's most anticipated annual traditions, bringing the entire school community together for a day of spirited competition, teamwork, and celebration. Students compete alongside their House teammates exciting races, challenges, and field games that promote collaboration, perseverance, and school pride. Families join in the fun through volunteer opportunities and the beloved annual House Parent Cheer, making Sports Day a joyful celebration of community, healthy competition, and the IST House Spirit.
Students design and build devices in STEM class to safely drop an egg from the school roof — combining creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. Parents and the entire school community join together to observe this tradition while our students keep close scientific observations and record results for further inquiry.
A yearly service learning project spearheaded by our first graders, where they learn business and marketing skills while fundraising for Central and South American artisans.
Moments that connect our community, celebrate our values, and make IST a place where everyone belongs and thrives. We believe that our traditions and our community are what sets our school apart as the premier, independent, IB World School in Austin, Texas.
