The 2nd Annual Multicultural Festival of Elmira 2024

Saturday, September 21, 2024 | 12-5PM

Gibson Park, 17 First St. W., Elmira, ON

Our event is accessible. Learn more here.

FOOD BOOTH VENDORS

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.