Save the date
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 12 PM-6 PM
Gibson Park, 17 First St. W., Elmira, ON
HOPE’s Multicultural Festival of Elmira (MFE) was created to broaden our knowledge and awareness of the diverse cultures around us, welcome newcomers to the Waterloo Region, celebrate various ethnic groups, raise awareness of diversity and inclusion through performances, workshops, services and vendors, and establish a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Take a look at a recap of MFE 2025.
Rooted Here. Growing Together.
This year’s theme, “Rooted Here. Growing Together,” shows how shared presence and care create vibrant, connected communities. No matter where we come from, we all contribute to what’s growing here. We learn from each other, celebrate diverse cultures, and build a future based on respect, inclusion, and belonging on the land we share.
Thanks to our Feature Sponsors
Partnerships with HOPE
At HOPE, we value building meaningful partnerships and strong relationships with organizations that share our mission, vision, and values. We believe that working together allows us to strengthen our community, create new opportunities, and make a lasting impact.
Review our Engagement Guidelines to learn more about what partnering with us would look like!
Performers from MFE 2026
Vendors from the Festival
Activities at the Festival
New this Year: Global Games and Musical Instruments
This year, we introduced interactive spaces designed to bring cultures together through play, rhythm, and shared traditions: the Global Games Tent and the Global Musical Instruments Tent!
Global Games Tent
Attendees discovered timeless traditions, friendly competition, and cultural connection through classic games from around the world, including:
- Ayo & Ludo (Nigeria)
- Sjoelen (Netherlands)
- Carrom (South Asia)
- Mancala (Egypt)
Musical Instruments
Attendees also had the chance to stop by and see, touch, and learn about instruments from different cultural traditions, including a special showcase of Colombian Instruments all day long.
Cultures United
This space invited attendees to connect, learn, and celebrate our regions multicultural tapestry through authentic displays, storytelling, arts, and traditional treats.
Our dedicated cultural ambassadors include:
Métis & Indigenous Culture with Pandora Wilhelm
Hmong Heritage & Journey with Lee Lynhiavu
Jewish Culture, Heritage, and Traditions with David Kaufman
Rohingya Culture: Heritage, Art, and Resilience with Rahima Khushi
The MFE Global Quest (Youth Challenge)
Youth attendees between the ages of 14 and 24 explored the world right in Elmira by participating in the MFE Global Quest at this year’s festival.
The challenge was completely free to play. Adventurers kicked off their journey at the Welcome Booth to collect their Quest Log Stamp Card before setting out on festival grounds to complete three epic challenges for a chance to win these prizes:
- Free local treat voucher to Local Renaissance Cafe
- Exclusive MFE Tote Bag or T-Shirt
- Entered into a draw to win a brand new pair of premium Sony Wireless Headphones
The 3 Quests Youth Conquered:
Quest 1: Global Games Challenge – Played traditional games from around the world in the Global Games Zone
Quest 2: World Languages Hunt – Connected with exhibitors across cultural booths to learn and record how to say “Welcome” or “Community” in three different languages
Quest 3: “Secret Menu” Culinary Quest – Talked with food vendors to discover and log their favourite unique menu items
Volunteers and Planning Committee
In the Community!
We love hitting the road to connect with the community and celebrate diversity across the region! The MFE Planning Committee attended these summer events to promote the festival.
The festival would not be possible without our Sponsors and Funders.
Become a Festival Volunteer and Join the Celebration!
Volunteering at the Multicultural Festival of Elmira isn’t just about giving your time—it’s about being part of something truly special. You’ll help create an event that celebrates our community’s rich diversity, fosters inclusivity, and brings people together in meaningful ways.
Why Volunteer?
- Warm & Welcoming Team: Join a supportive group of volunteer MFE committee members who are here to make your volunteering experience smooth and enjoyable. We’re all about making things easy for you, so you can focus on having fun and making an impact.
- Positive Energy: We’re looking for bright, friendly individuals with a positive outlook who are excited to be part of something amazing. Your enthusiasm will help make this festival an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
- Make a Difference: Your efforts will help showcase the beauty of different cultures, creating an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere for the whole community.
- Connect & Grow: Meet new people, build connections and gain valuable experience while contributing to a cause that’s making a real difference in our community.
What to Expect
As a volunteer, you’ll have the flexibility to choose a time frame that works for you while assisting with various festival activities. Whether it’s helping with set-up, welcoming guests, or supporting cultural performances and workshops, your positive energy and friendly attitude will be key to the festival’s success.
Applications are now closed for 2026.
Make sure to check back next year!
If you have any questions, send us an email at volunteers@heartsopenforeveryone.ca.
The People Behind the Festival
Our team is made up of local Elmira residents who have kindly volunteered their time to help organize MFE. Each of them brings passion and positive energy to every aspect of this event because they truly care about our community. That’s why our community can be assured that it will be an amazing festival to remember.
AmyBeth Brubacher ~ Vendor Coordinator
Amrita Maharaj-Dube ~ Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Ashley Waerea ~ Cultures United Coordinator
Brittney Emslie ~ Operations Support
Christine Cole ~ Vendor Coordinator
Denise Dickieson ~ Sponsorship and Volunteer Coordinator
Karen Lebold ~ Volunteer and Vendor Coordinator
Kaia Lebold ~ Youth Committee Member
Olabode Fashina ~ Sponsor and Vendor Coordinator
Rishabe Srinivas ~ MFE Youth Ambassador
Robyn Beckett ~ Grant Writer
Savannah Waerea ~ Youth Committee Member
Valentina Naranjo ~ Performance Coordinator
Our event is accessible. Learn more here.
Need Support to Attend? We’re Here to Help.
We want everyone to feel welcome and included at the festival. If transportation, food, or other needs might prevent you from attending, please reach out. We’ll do our best to help. We have a limited budget to provide support, but we’ll work with you wherever we can.
Contact us at info@heartsopenforeveryone.ca.