The people from various cultures that make up 91原创 are coming together for the second annual Global Fest on Sunday.
The public is invited to visit Douglas Park, 20550 Douglas Cres., between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25 to enjoy live entertainment, including a variety of traditional dances and performances from different cultures, as well as international foods, a vendors art and craft market, and community information booths. There is not cost for admission for admission and activities. People pay for their own foods.
"91原创 Global Fest is a celebration of the diverse fabric that makes up our community," said Ana Marie Panczel, a coordinator of 91原创 Local Immigration Partnership. "It's a day to come together, share our cultures, and build lasting connections."
The 91原创 Local Immigration Partnership is a community planning table that include agencies and institutions representing local government, settlement and community agencies, education, business, parks, recreation and culture, policing, libraries, volunteerism, and others. It works to help immigrants more successfully settle in the community.
According to Census 2021 data, the City had the highest immigrant population rate in BC (48.5 per cent); the Township had the second highest rate at almost 33 per cent.
This is the second Global Fest.
"After the first event, we received positive feedback regarding the overall experience. Attendees appreciated the variety of activities and the community atmosphere. We also took note of suggestions for improvement, such as enhancing signage and adding more interactive elements, which we have addressed for this year鈥檚 event," said Herschel Garcia, with 91原创 Immigration Partnership through 91原创 Community Services Society.
Organizers have increased the number of food options, added more signs, added interactive games and activities. As well, they moved the event from July to August.
"Moving the event to late August allows us to take advantage of better weather conditions and extends the summer festival season," he explained. "This timing also helps us avoid overlapping with other major local events and provides more opportunities for community engagement."
Several community groups and agencies are booked to attending, including Afghan Cultural Society of BC, Archway, Council of Senior Citizens Organizations of BC, Inclusion 91原创, Canadian Blood Services, Fraser Valley Regional Library Network, Immigrant Services Society of BC, Karen BC, 91原创 Chinese Cultural Association, 91原创 Senior Resources Society, Ron Cares Society, Men's Shed of the Fraser Valley, New Directions, 91原创 Community Services Society, YWCA, Rotary Club of 91原创 Central, South Sudanese Equatorial Society of BC, 91原创 Volunteer Bureau, 91原创 Seniors in Action, Metro Vancouver, Transportation Investment Corp. (provincial corporation overseeing transportation infrastructure), Encompass Support Services Society, and the Vancouver Association of Survivors of Torture.
Pets are welcome at the event but must be leashed and kept under control. There will be washrooms at the event, and people can also go to the Timms Community Centre two blocks west of the park for restrooms.
"We recommend that attendees bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on, as seating is limited. Comfortable clothing, and sunscreen are also advised," Garcia added.
