Fox Valley Mall in Aurora wins international award for its multicultural events

Aurora’s Fox Valley Mall recently won an international award for the multicultural events it holds.

The shopping and entertainment center was recognized by the International Council of Shopping Centers with a silver award for its series of cultural events it holds throughout the year.

The silver award was second place among 70 finalists worldwide. The council has more than 70,000 members in 100 countries. The council gives awards for marketing, design, development and retail store design, among other things.

Fox Valley Mall officials submitted their series of eight cultural events they celebrate with themes throughout the mall, and cultural entertainment in the main central area.

“If anybody gets it right, they do,” said Clayton Muhammad, Aurora’s chief communications and equity officer. “We often talk about the diversity of Aurora, we’re one of the most diverse cities, and we’re very proud of that.”

Muhammad spoke recently when the City Council and Mayor Richard Irvin recognized Fox Valley Mall officials for the award, which the mall actually won May 19.

Irvin called the center’s cultural celebrations “inclusive and reflective,” and Ald. Shweta Baid, 10th Ward, said the events are “educational as well as celebrations.”

The center holds events for Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth, the Moon Festival, the Frido Kahlo Festival, Day of the Dead and Diwali.

“The mall certainly opens its doors to our diverse communities,” Muhammad said.

Christina Arias, a Fox Valley Mall representative, said they try to pursue innovative events and programs.

“We’re honored to be part of such an inclusive community where we can celebrate the people and diverse cultures that make up our home,” she said.

Fox Valley Mall in recent years has been going through a major remake, getting away from larger retail stores and adding more residential and entertainment uses to its mix.

slord@tribpub.com