The 2nd Annual Multicultural Festival of Elmira 2024
Saturday, September 21, 2024 | 12-5PM
Gibson Park, 17 First St. W., Elmira, ON
The Multicultural Festival of Elmira (MFE) was created by HO.P.E. to help 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 how our inaugural festival looked here!
Our event is accessible. Learn more here.
PERFORMANCE LINEUP
| 12:00 PM | WELCOME MESSAGE |
| 12:05 PM | Indigenous Poets Society ~ Opening, Singing, Drumming, Spoken Word |
| 12:50 PM | Tabla Craft ~ Tabla Drum player |
| 1:10 PM | SoulTurks ~ Turkish Musical Performance with a Guitarist and Violinist |
| 1:30 PM | Natyalaya Dance Academy ~ North Indian Dancers |
| 1:45 PM | Steel Pan Kam ~ Steel Pan Drum Performance |
| 2:20 PM | AfroxDance ~ Youth African Dance Group from the University of Waterloo |
| 2:30 PM | Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy ~ Lion Dance Team |
| 2:50 PM | Dr. Mike and the Night Nurses ~ Reggae Band |
| 3:30 PM | Rescue Junction ~ Mennonite Bluegrass Band |
| 4:10 PM | Conexion Latina ~ 8-Piece Latin Band |
| 4:55 PM | CLOSING MESSAGE |
VENDORS
FOOD VENDORS
FOOD TRUCK: Lola Liza Foods
Get ready to indulge in the vibrant flavours of the Philippines! Lola Liza Foods’ food truck offers an authentic taste of Filipino cuisine, including favourites like Filipino BBQ, Kwek-Kwek, Lumpiang Shanghai, Siu Mai and Pansit. Don’t miss out on the sweet delights of Leche Flan and Halo-Halo or the adventurous taste of Balut. Whether you’re a fan of Filipino food or eager to try something new, this food truck is a must-visit for a delicious and cultural experience.
Promo: Get a FREE Leche Flan for a minimum purchase!
FOOD TRUCK: Marquez Churros
Experience the rich culinary heritage of Mexico with Marquez Churros! This family-run food truck is dedicated to serving up delicious, affordable and high-quality treats made from special family recipes using fresh local ingredients. Indulge in their mouthwatering Churros Ice Cream, Churros Tostadas, Flautas, and authentic Mexican drinks for a truly delightful taste of Mexico.
FOOD TRUCK: Pabla’s Street Food of India
Get your tastebuds ready to indulge in authentic flavours at Pabla’s Street Food of India! Serving the community with traditional Indian cuisine, this food truck offers mouthwatering dishes like Butter Chicken Rice, Butter Chicken Poutine, and Channa Masala with Samosa or Rice. Fries and hotdogs are also on the menu. Don’t forget to try their refreshing mango lassi for a true taste of India.
FOOD BOOTH VENDORS
Alebrije
Alebrije brings vibrant flavours of Central America with their signature Pupusas, Mixtas, Queso con Chicharron, and beans and cheese dishes. Alebrije’s dishes are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic tastes of El Salvador and Guatemala.
Caesar’s House of Bread
Caesar’s House of Bread highlights Caribbean pastries from St. Vincent and the Grenadines infused with the goodness of coconut. Enjoy coconut sweetbread, rock buns and sugar cake, peanut sugar cake, and raisin rolls, each bursting with rich, tropical flavours.
Dolis Cakes ‘N’ More
Experience the vibrant flavours of Africa with freshly baked pastries, including delicious meat pies, chicken pies, donuts and small chops, all crafted with care. Pair your treats with refreshing hibiscus drinks and mocktails for an authentic taste of African culinary traditions.
KWCG Asian Culture Club
Experience a taste of Asia with finger-licking Asian Chicken BBQ – a delicious blend of authentic flavours you won’t want to miss. While you’re there, make sure to pick up a gift of your choice: a traditional Asian craft or an indoor plant!
Lisboa Bakery and Grill
Known for their authentic Portuguese cuisine, Lisboa Bakery & Grill brings the rich culinary traditions of Portugal to our festival! Don’t miss the chance to indulge in their mouthwatering sauces, available in mild, medium and hot varieties.
Nibble & Nosh
Savour the bold flavours of Nibble & Nosh fun baked treats! Specializing in baked goods that focus on taste rather than excessive sweetness, they’ll be offering a delightful array of cookies, cakes and brownies. Stop by to settle your sweet tooth cravings.
The Tamale Girl
Kathy, aka The Tamale Girl, brings authentic Mexican flavours learned from her mom and Abuela. Enjoy meat and vegan options like tamales, soft corn tortillas, tacos, tostadas, Mexican corn salad and nachos. Available gluten-free and dairy-free.
ACTIVITY AREA
Head across the bridge to the west side of Gibson Park, where a vast expanse of land awaits you. We’ve utilized this space to create an exciting and engaging Activity Area. It’s a fun and safe environment filled with activities designed to entertain and inspire visitors of all ages.
Cultures United: A Global Journey of Food, Stories and Connections // 1:00-4:00 PM
In partnership with the Region of Waterloo Library
Join us at this year’s “Cultures United” event, held in a spacious tent during the Multicultural Festival of Elmira. Last year, we hosted this event in the library, but due to popular demand, we’ve brought it to the festival to reach even more of our community!
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of global cultures, where you can experience the sights, sounds, tastes, and stories from around the world—all in one place.
- Hear: Meet 10 passionate individuals who will share their traditions, stories, and heritage with you, each at their own tables, representing their unique culture.
- Taste and Smell: Savour a variety of light traditional snacks that offer a taste of different cultures.
- Sight and Touch: Explore a captivating collection of cultural artifacts, artworks, and items that tell stories of history and tradition. Get up close and personal with the objects that hold deep meaning in different cultures.
- Sight: Engage in meaningful conversations, broaden your horizons, and celebrate the beautiful diversity within our community. This experience is not just about learning—it’s about building bonds that transcend borders.
Indigenous Beading Workshop // 1:00-4:00 PM
Join us for an enriching and hands-on Métis beading workshop led by the talented Danielle Deschamps from Noohkooms Favourite and Pandora Wilhelm of Mulberry Design.
This workshop is open to all ages and is a perfect activity for families and kids to connect with Indigenous culture and explore the intricate world of beaded jewellery. As you create your own piece, you’ll not only learn traditional beading techniques but also gain insight into the cultural significance behind this cherished art form.
Don’t miss this chance to engage in a meaningful cultural experience, celebrate Indigenous artistry, and create something beautiful with your own hands. It’s an important and enriching activity that you won’t want to miss!
Indigenous Drumming Workshop with Kelly Welch // 1:00-2:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Indigenous music with a drumming workshop led by Kelly Welch, an Anishinaabe/Ojibwe artist. This powerful and transformative experience will invite participants of all ages to join in a traditional Anishinaabe hand drum circle.
From teaching the basics of drumming to sharing ancient drum songs passed down through generations, Kelly will guide you through this soulful journey. Learn the significance of the drum in Anishinaabe traditions and contribute to the collective rhythm of the circle.
You’ll carry this enriching experience with you long after the drumbeat fades.
Children’s Performances
Mr. J and the Groovy Gang ~ 1:00-2:00 PM and 3:00-4:00 PM
Get ready for an exciting, family-friendly musical experience! This high-energy group brings a unique blend of classic kids’ songs, catchy original tunes, and fun cover hits that everyone will enjoy. Led by Mr. J, an enthusiastic elementary school teacher with a passion for sharing the joy of music, the band delivers performances full of energy, fun, and education. Having performed at libraries and festivals across Ontario, and featured on CMCTV, Mr. J continues to captivate audiences of all ages with their unforgettable live shows. Don’t miss out on this entertaining and educational performance at the Multicultural Festival of Elmira!
KWCG Asian Cultural Club ~ 2:00-2:20 PM
Join the KWCG Asian Cultural Club for an enchanting Chinese Lion Ribbon Dance workshop, where you’ll experience the beauty and grace of this traditional art form. Ribbon dances have a long history in Chinese culture, symbolizing joy, celebration and prosperity. With flowing ribbons, dancers create stunning visual patterns, evoking a sense of harmony and elegance. Originating during the Han Dynasty, ribbon dances have been performed for centuries to mark special occasions and are known for their symbolic representation of wishes for good fortune.
The Calm Corner // All Day
Looking for a quiet space to take a break from the excitement? The Calm Corner offers a low-stimulation environment where you can unwind and recharge. Visit our tent for a comfortable setting with mindfulness books from the Elmira Library, mandala colouring sheets, earplugs, and cozy seating. It’s the perfect spot to pause and find a moment of calm amidst the day’s festivities.
Chair Yoga // 2:40-3:00 PM
Take a break and rejuvenate with a 20-minute Chair Yoga session led by Bethany Lee from Bethany Lee Yoga Studio. This accessible activity is perfect for seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone looking to enjoy a gentle, relaxing stretch. Come unwind and refresh in the park—everyone is welcome!
E-Bike Ride // 1-4 PM
Experience the VanRaam Chat Rickshaw, an accessible e-bike adventure offered by Elmira District Community Living (EDCL)! With the help of a volunteer rider, you can enjoy a peaceful journey through the park’s trails and around the neighbourhood. Don’t miss this unique opportunity—stop by the EDCL tent to catch your ride!
Face Painting // 1-4 PM
No festival is complete without some creative face painting! Our MFE committee planning member and her daughter will be bringing colourful face art to life. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, don’t miss this fun activity that adds an extra splash of joy to the day!
Game On! // All Day
Get ready for some friendly competition and tons of fun at our Game On play area offered by B.A.S.E., a local Elmira activity rental organization! Dive into classic games like Cornhole and Giant Connect Four—perfect for kids and families to enjoy together. Bring your A-game and challenge your friends and family to see who comes out on top!
Take Part in the Community Art Project with Alana Decker
We’re thrilled to announce that Alana Decker, a talented visual artist and community builder, will be leading a special community art project during the Multicultural Festival of Elmira! This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary as we come together to create a 6’x6′ mural that reflects the vibrant diversity of our community and stands as a testament to our collective strength.
Head over to the Community Art Project tent at the festival on the activity side of the park, where you can contribute to this incredible mural using a “paint by numbers” style while engaging with fellow residents and sharing in the joy of creating something meaningful together. Alana has carefully designed the mural to allow everyone, regardless of artistic experience, to participate and leave their mark on this piece of community art.
Once completed, this mural will be on display at the Woolwich Memorial Centre as a lasting symbol of unity and creativity. We’ll celebrate this achievement with a special reveal ceremony—stay tuned for details!
Don’t miss this chance to create, connect, and contribute to a work of art that will inspire our community for years to come.
About Alana Decker
Alana Decker is a visual artist and community builder who is passionate about integrating art with mental health advocacy. As an artist, she aims to use her creative talents to raise awareness of important issues and encourage discussions around well-being. Her work demonstrates how the arts can enrich society in meaningful ways by spreading messages of empowerment.
Meet Alana Online
Follow Alana Decker on social media to see more of her incredible work and stay connected with her latest projects:
Instagram: @a.deckerart
Facebook: A.Decker Creations
TikTok: @adecker84
Website: www.adeckercreations.com
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 good energy 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.
Ready to Join Us?
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
Amanda Wease
Ashley Waerea ~ Education Coordinator
Brittney Emslie
Christine Cole
Denise Dickieson ~ Sponsorship Coordinator
Jasmine Thuroo ~ Photography
Karen Lebold ~ Social Media Coordinator
Kim Barfoot
Laura Cortes
Mary Dowhaniuk
Robyn Beckett ~ Grant Writer
Rosa Maria de Ramos Wanklyn
Valentina Naranjo ~ Entertainment Coordinator
Views
*Estimated value – via website, e-newsletters sent by multiple organizations, and posters distributed region-wide
engaged social media accounts
(within 6 months)
MFE would not be possible without our participating sponsors.
Get Ready for MFE!
MFE T-Shirt Orders
We will be selling our popular “We All Belong” t-shirts during the festival. You’ll find our tent next to the MFE Welcome Booth.
Cost is $20/shirt.
MFE Site Map
Gibson Park is not that large but we have the full area packed with lots of fun the whole family will enjoy.
We do not want barriers to get in the way of anyone’s participation at the event. We have a limited budget to provide transportation and food support. If you need support with transportation, food or anything else in order to attend the event please reach out to info@heartsopenforeveryone.ca.