3rd Annual Multicultural Festival of Elmira
Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 11AM-6PM
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 2024 here!
View the official Multicultural Festival of Elmira 2025 Poster in various languages
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Feel the Rhythm. Celebrate the Culture.
We’re bringing the world to Elmira! This year’s Multicultural Festival features an incredible lineup of artists who will have you dancing, clapping, and soaking in the beauty of global traditions.
CULTURAL FOOD
Dishes That Tell a Story
Delicious meals and treats from many cultures will be available throughout the day. Everything from savoury bites to sweet desserts! Each dish brings a taste of tradition, made with love by local food booth vendors.
MFE Market
Creations That Inspire
From handcrafted art to cultural keepsakes, explore unique pieces and meaningful treasures at the MFE Market.
Activities
Hands-On Culture & Creativity
Dive into art, games, and traditions that bring the world to Elmira. Fun for all ages!
Cultures United
Mind & Heart First Aid: Community Support Booth
Sponsors
Community Info Booths
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 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.
We’re set for this the 2025 festival. If you have an interest in joining us next year, 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
Amanda Wease ~ Activities Coordinator
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
Mary Dowhaniuk ~ Volunteer Coordinator
Robyn Beckett ~ Grant Writer
Rosa Maria de Ramos Wanklyn ~ Performance Coordinator
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.