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.
Confirmed Vendors
A Sneak Peek at Our 2026 Lineup!
The applications are rolling in, the spots are filling fast, and our first round of amazing vendors is officially locked in! Get ready to taste, shop, and support some incredible local businesses.
Here is a first look at our confirmed vendors so far:
AFRO
Amigurumika
Arnold Hearing Centres
ChefNavie and KCI Hospitality
Elmira Pet Products
Keetup Publishing House
KO Yoga
MCC Thrift & Gift
MT Space
Region of Waterloo Library
Run4OfficeWR
SOSANE
The Ripple Effect Education (TREE)
Toytopia
Woolwich Counselling Centre
(Psst… vendor? Don’t see your name here yet? Make sure to finalize your spot so we can add you to the next reveal!)
Catch Us in the Community!
Find us at these upcoming events
We love hitting the road to connect with the community and celebrate diversity across the region! Come visit the Multicultural Festival of Elmira (MFE) booth at these incredible local events to meet our team, learn about this year’s festival, and win some amazing prizes. You won’t want to miss it!
Woolwich Pride
📅 Date: Saturday, June 13
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
🔗 Learn more about Woolwich Pride
Kitchener Waterloo Multicultural Festival
📅 Date: Saturday, June 20
🕐 Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🔗 Learn more about the KW Multicultural Festival
Stop by, say hello, and grab some swag!
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 OPEN!
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
Kim Barfoot
Meltem Aydin Smith
Olabode Fashina
Robyn Beckett ~ Grant Writer
Valentina Naranjo ~ Performance Coordinator
Activity Team
Kaia Lebold
Savannah Waerea
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.