Imagine, if you will, being gifted with a trip around the globe, for as many people as you choose. Travelling throughout the continents, experiencing the people, the culture, cuisine and entertainment. For free!
CultureFest in Airdrie is promising the next best thing for its second annual festival on July 1: all of the above, without having to pack, carry a passport or wait in an airport terminal. Sweet!
CultureFest is the result of a collaborative, grassroots initiative gathering of Airdrie’s cultural communities, City staff and council, in one location, says Airdrie CultureFest Society President Kimberley Glass.
“Everyone wanted the same thing, to create a multicultural event festival to showcase and celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of the communities and people who make Airdrie so amazing,” she says. “And, after the incredible turnout from the entire community for our first one last July, we realized we had something really special.”
After only four months of planning, more than 4,000 people attended the inaugural event in 2024. The pathways were barely visible, it was so busy. Glass believes the event made great strides toward creating a safe space for learning, connection and celebration.
CultureFest received not-for-profit status in October 2024 and, today, the Airdrie CultureFest Society is led by an elected board of dedicated volunteers. Glass refers to them as “community driven, compassionate, community builders.”
“I am just the figurehead, and only because I filled out the original forms,” she says. “This wouldn’t happen without the following outstanding volunteers: Kim Sundset, Kristen Shima, Nekeisha Bolton, Rajwant Kaur and Chris Glass. We are joined by a planning committee of over 20 people, which is why we have had such success.”
CultureFest attendees will walk the paths of Nose Creek Regional Park, going from continent to continent, featuring international pavilions designed to showcase, share and celebrate who they are and the best of what their culture brings to Airdrie.
“Each pavilion will have its own stage for performers, with music and dance,” says Kimberley Glass. “Each will provide food choices from that culture. And there will be vendors sharing crafts and services that are particular to each culture.
“What we really want to cultivate is a welcoming and embracing environment which our global groups have created for us. A place for people to feel safe asking questions and learning through conversation what makes us unique.”
Glass says attendees can expect to see collaborations with other Airdrie non-profits like the Airdrie Sports Council through international sports, kids zone and food trucks. This year, local microbreweries will be featured at the beer gardens.
“There literally is something for everyone to do and see and have fun with,” she says.
CultureFest will take place at Nose Creek Regional Park on July 1 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more information, visit airdrieculturefest.com.
