Kelowna, BC — July 1, 2024 — Kelowna Folkfest, the largest indoor multicultural event in the region, proudly marked another successful year at Prospera Place with captivating performances and diverse food, showcasing cultural heritage from around the world. Founded by Mr. Ben Lee in 1974, Folkfest continues its mission to honour and celebrate cultural diversity in Central Okanagan. Excluding the cancelled in-person events during the pandemic, this year marks the 49th edition of Kelowna Folkfest in its long history spanning over 50 years. "We are thrilled with the turnout and support," said Ms. Elna von Dach, Chair of the Folkfest Committee. "This festival truly celebrates the vibrant cultural tapestry of our community."
This event featured participation from more than 20 organizations representing diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, highlighting a variety of dances and musical performances including interactive drumming with the audience. Attendees also enjoyed a giant Canada Day birthday cake sponsored by Coldwell Banker, drawing several thousand attendees from various backgrounds who all enjoyed complimentary admission. We extend our sincere gratitude to the volunteers, performers, and the City of Kelowna for their invaluable support.
Acknowledgements:
Distinguished Guests: Tracy Gray – MP of Kelowna-Lake Country; Dan Albas – MP of Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola; Norm Letnick – MLA of Kelowna-Lake Country; Ben Stewart – MLA of Westside-Kelowna; Tom Dyas – Mayor of City of Kelowna
Event Emcees: City Councillors Maxine DeHart and Mohini Singh; Trinity Lai, 2024 Miss Kelowna Lady of the Lake candidate
Funders and Sponsors: City of Kelowna, Canadian Heritage, Festivals Kelowna, Asian Heritage Okanagan, OCCA Communities Association, Global Citizen Events, Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty
Participating organizations: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 26, Lady of the Lake Society, Kelowna Sea Cadets, Okanagan Hungarian Society, Okanagan Buddhist Cultural Centre, Okanagan Jewish Community, Indo-Canadian Community, Okanagan Filipino-Canadians Society, OCCA Communities Association, Kelowna Japanese Language Society, Banat Al Raks, BIBAK Okanagan Cultural Society, Viva Chile, Dolyna Ukrainian Dancers, Ticálié Irish Dance Academy, The Chinese Freemans Club of Kelowna, Kelowna Pipe Band Society, Rejoicing Team, Somo Colombia, Okanagan Korean Culture and Knowledge Society.
2024 Folkfest Committee: Elna von Dach (Chair), Fei Liu (Vice Chair), Linda Kovach (Secretary), Julia Proulx (Treasurer), Susie Kaul, Steven Finkleman, Marriana Chen, Renxian Tan
For further details, please visit www.kelownafolkfest.ca.
Media Contact: Ms. Fei Liu, Vice Chair of 2024 Folkfest Committee, Email: ed@occabc.ca
Photos are taken by Folkfest and are authorized to be published
टिप्पणियां