This vibrant outdoor festival celebrates cultural connection, community enrichment, and social justice through arts and culture.
Presented by the Alegria Soy Cultural & Community Society in partnership with the Festival Burnaby Grant Program, SFU Beedie School of Business, SFU Co-Laboratorio (CoLab), and SFU Institute of Black and African Diaspora Research and Engagement.
Don’t miss out on this amazing celebration—register now and join in on the fun!
From the soul-stirring melodies of Bachata's Dominican defiance, the electrifying beats of African resistance and the unforgettable rhythms of Cuban salsa. Join us for a dialogue that transcends boundaries and unites us in understanding and appreciation. Engage in an enriching dialogue as we invite members of our community to participate in an open exchange of ideas on art and culture as Resistance.
- Captivating performances by Avila Julio Cuban Band, The African Masters, and many more
- Hands-on workshops and activities for kids
- A Global Village and Global Market Place showcasing our community's cultural wealth
- Enriching dialogue on art and culture as a form of resistance
- A call to action for social justice in the Edmonds community
📅 Date: Saturday, July 13, 2024
📍 Location: Edmonds Park, 4733 Humphries Avenue, Burnaby BC
⏰ Time: 12:00pm - 4:30pm
Professor of Marketing and Co-Founder of The Co-Laboratorio project that strengthens cross-sector collaboration, learning and innovation--for more inclusive resilient solutions in governance, policies and industry practice. She is also Co-Director Institute of the Black and African Diaspora R. Research and Engagement SFU.
"Transforming Cultural Assets into Social and Economic Well-Being"
Join us for an enlightening session conducted by Dr. June Francis, focused on harnessing racial and cultural diversity for social and economic progress.
We will explore how Edmonds, BC, renowned for its cultural richness, will lead the charge in turning its diverse tapestry of languages, arts, and traditions into engines of prosperity.
Based on the report of "Building Belonging in Burnaby for the Racialized Newcomers and Immigrants, understanding and Dismantling Systemic Racism” by The Co-Laboratorio – Dr Kristina Henriksson and Dr June Francis in collaboration with The City of Burnaby, The Burnaby Intercultural Planning Table, The Beedie School of Business and Burnaby Family Life and with participation of Burnaby organizations and residents.
Together, let’s empower Edmonds through its cultural heritage!
Julio Avila Cuban Band is a 10-piece music powerhouse led by bass virtuoso, composer, and lead singer, Julio Avila! Born and raised in Cuba, in a family of established musicians, Julio first developed a strong bond with the traditional tune, changüí, which has roots in his native Guantanamo.
Surrounded by vibrant and rich musical heritage of Cuba, Julio perfected playing his principal instrument, the bass, while taking on the lead singer, arranger, and composer roles as well.
The Colombian Folklore Group specializes in traditional Colombian dance forms, and a favourite style to perform is the lively and energetic Cumbia. Originating from the coastal regions of Colombia, Cumbia is more than just a dance—it's a celebration of Colombia's diverse cultural heritage.
With its infectious rhythms and spirited movements, Cumbia embodies the joy and vitality of Colombian life. It reflects the fusion of African, Indigenous, and European influences that define Colombian identity. Through the performances, the aim is to honor the cultural tapestry and celebrate the unity found in diversity.
Liat is a Flamenco dancer, performer, choreographer, and teacher. She has trained in Vancouver, and has been going to spain yearly since 2018 to further her Flamenco studies. Liat has been actively performing and teaching Flamenco for the community, cultural and Flamenco festivals, as well as private events and small theatre venues across the lower mainland.
The expressive and challenging nature of Flamenco inspires Liat to research, create, perform, and teach it. She takes pride in collaborating with local dance artists and musicians and strives to continuously create new works. She is an expressive dancer, a storyteller and believes that dance is an embodied language that exists to communicate and teach.
Fame Art Group specializes in professional Persian dance productions, offering a diverse lineup of shows ideal for festivals. Their performances showcase a range of Iranian dances, from elegant court dances to vibrant folk dances. The Group uniquely blends traditional Iranian dance with Sama, a performance integral to Sufi ceremonies that fosters a deep connection with poetry.
At Fame Art Group views dance as a fundamental way to achieve unity. Just as words do, dance allows us to connect across different cultures and languages. Founded by Fereshteh Zakery in 2014, the team has grown to include several talented dancers.
The Edmond Las Devinas Dance Group is a captivating ensemble that uses the power of dance to advocate for social justice.
With vibrant energy and mesmerizing moves, this talented group will be performing to the spirited beats of Mangulina and Palos, evoking the compelling cultures of the Caribbean and Africa.
Originally from sunny El Salvador, Nati Escobar has been dancing for as long as she can remember, performing middle-eastern dance professionally since 2016.
The rhythms and melodies that instantly made her want to get up and move, caught her interest at first; but it’s the rich stories that are preserved and told through the dance that ignited in her an unwavering passion and have held her heart captive since.
Presented by Alegria Soy and the Burnaby Neighbourhood
House.
The Edmonds World Party is not just an event; it is an experience that celebrates cultural diversity and community solidarity. The Global Village and Children's Area are key highlights that enrich this festival, making it a day of joy, learning, and community bonding. Whether you're an adult eager to explore new cultures or a child ready to have a day of fun and creativity, the Global Village and the children areas have something magical to offer everyone.
"This year, we will only have tables. No tents"
Co-presented by Alegría Soy Cultural & Community Society, The Burnaby Intercultural Planning Table, and Burnaby Together- Coalition Against Racism and Hate
This is a celebration of global unity, culinary diversity, and community spirit. The Global Market Place promises to be a rich, engaging, and enjoyable experience for everyone. So, come with an open heart and an eager palate, and join us in this delicious celebration of the world's culinary treasures (package foods and drinks only). Get ready to feast your senses at the Global Market Place!
We believe the connection between the environment, art, and culture is multifaceted and profound. Art and culture can reflect societal attitudes and concerns about the environment, serving as powerful tools to address issues such as reducing plastic usage, waste generation, and pollution while raising awareness.
These activities aim to educate participants and viewers on recyclable materials and proper waste disposal, encouraging greater attention to environmental issues.
1. Waste Separation Competition, recyclable and non-recyclable waste.
2. Environmental Message on Cotton Cloth: The participants will write a short sentence or draw something related to the environment.
Hey there amazing community members! Our World Party is coming up, and we want you to have the best time.
- Getting There:
Skip the parking hassle and do the planet a favor by using public transportation. It’s easy, convenient, and eco-friendly! - Stay Hydrated:
Bring water to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day. There are water fountains in the park to fill your water bottles back up. - Get Comfy:
Pack a blanket to set up on the lawn, relax, and enjoy the festivities in comfort.
Based in one of Canada’s most diverse neighbourhoods, Alegría Soy is a grassroots non-profit organization working to support the unique needs of Edmonds, Burnaby, and celebrating the important ethnic diversity at the core of our community. We are a group of Edmonds residents who are connected, empowered, and committed to the cause of social justice for ourselves, our families, and our community. Through innovative programs, gatherings, celebrations, and collaborations, we bring attention to the unique, intersecting issues in our neighbourhood.
"This is more than a fiesta, it's a call for social change!"
