As one of summer’s capstone events on Sept. 18, Cochrane residents can experience the rich and diverse cultures found within the community at the 2022 CultureFest.
The annual event is held in conjunction with Alberta Culture Days, which are recognized every September. CultureFest is hosted by the Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee (CISC) and takes place at the Cochrane Lions Event Centre.
CISC president Kristina Kindree says the event is a great social and educational experience for the community to enjoy. In the few years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kindree and the committee that organizes CutureFest have struggled to hold the in-person celebration.
“The whole purpose of this event is to get people together and give people the opportunity to meet each other and learn about the different cultures in Cochrane and showcase how diverse we are,” she said.
Kindree believes CultureFest will benefit both locals and immigrants in the community. She added it will be a great way for residents to connect with others and enjoy themselves at the same time.
On the day of the event, 15 booths will be on site, each with representatives offering a variety of cultural experiences to visitors and teaching them about their heritage. Each booth will provide unique information, facts and interactive activities from around the world. Some will be offering food samples to offer guests a taste of their culture.
In addition to the educational booths, performances from Portugal, England, Thailand, Scotland, Philippines and India will be showcased throughout the day. A $100 gift basket will also be offered as a door prize at the event.
Participants from the Stoney Nakoda First Nation will set up a teepee to display in front of the event centre.
The event is free and Kindree invites anyone who is interested in learning about the different heritages and cultures that can be found in Cochrane.
“It’s just a great way to celebrate your culture and heritage in Cochrane,” she said.
“Cochrane is a great town. It’s small enough for people to feel that sense of community.”
Outside of demonstrating diversity in the community, she believes that this can also serve as a way to inform the community of events internationally.
Volunteering opportunities for CultureFest and future CISC are still available as of writing. Kindree asks those who are interested to www.cochraneimmigrantservices.ca prior to or on Sept. 18 to learn about how they can be part of the event.
