The ISSS Super Bowl Watch Party welcomed more than 70 students to the Global Lounge for an evening focused on connection, culture, and one of the most-watched sporting events in the United States. For some attendees, the Super Bowl was a familiar tradition, while others were experiencing it for the first time. Students gathered not only to watch the game, but also to learn from one another and take part in a shared cultural experience.
The atmosphere throughout the evening was relaxed and social. Students showed support for both teams, applauding strong plays and reacting appreciatively to key moments on the field. Rather than focusing on rivalry, the emphasis remained on enjoying good football and the collective experience of watching the game together. Conversations moved easily around the room as students discussed rules, compared sports traditions from their home countries, and shared what brought them to the event. Pizza and queso, two popular U.S. game-day favorites, were served and enjoyed throughout the night, adding to the gathering’s welcoming, familiar feel.
While the game kept students engaged, the halftime show was the most anticipated part of the evening. Headlined by Bad Bunny, the performance drew immediate attention from across the Global Lounge. As the show began, students settled in to watch closely, many eager to see how one of the world’s most influential artists would approach the Super Bowl stage.
Bad Bunny’s halftime show stood out for its celebration of the many countries and cultures that make up the Americas. Through music, visuals, and choreography, the performance highlighted cultural connections across North, Central, and South America. Puerto Rican imagery played a central role alongside musical styles and rhythms rooted in Latin American traditions.
The show emphasized shared histories and identities, presenting a powerful reminder of how culture in the Americas is deeply interconnected. At the end of the performance, Bad Bunny held up a football that read “Together, we are America” and spoke words acknowledging countries from South America, Central America, and North America, including Canada. This moment resonated strongly with many students in the room and underscored the message of unity across the continent, bringing the halftime show’s cultural themes into sharp focus.
Another highlight of the halftime show was the number of celebrity appearances throughout the performance. Each new cameo prompted audible gasps, quiet excitement, and even some applause from students watching together. Latin music icon Ricky Martin appeared during the show, adding to the sense of musical legacy and global influence. Lady Gaga also made a brief appearance, drawing surprised claps and immediate recognition from around the room.
Additional celebrity appearances continued to capture students’ attention. Cardi B and Karol G appeared during the performance, reinforcing the show’s global scope and musical diversity. Actor Pedro Pascal’s appearance sparked smiles and recognition among students, while appearances by Jessica Alba and social media personality Alix Earle led to whispered conversations and shared reactions. These moments added layers of excitement while maintaining the event’s calm, engaged tone.
As the halftime show concluded and the game resumed, conversations filled the Global Lounge. Students reflected on their favorite moments, discussed the performance’s cultural themes, and shared which celebrity appearances surprised them most. The halftime show became a shared point of connection, encouraging dialogue and interaction among students who may not have otherwise met.
The ISSS Super Bowl Watch Party created a space for students to connect through sport, music, and community. The event offered a meaningful way to experience an important U.S. tradition together. Through claps, quiet gasps, and shared conversation, students enjoyed the Super Bowl as a global community.
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
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