Burnaby isn’t just a multicultural community with a wide array of ethnic groups residing in our fair city.
It’s also a hub of activity when it comes to different ethnicities celebrating their cultures. And it’s all because of our welcoming city government and a stellar place to hold events – Swangard Stadium.
I have a sentimental attachment to Swangard because I scored the biggest goal of my life there, but the stadium is used for far more than just sports events.
It’s the place to go if you are hosting a major cultural celebration.
Just in the past few weeks, Swangard has hosted Fiji Fest and the Ethiopian Summer Festival. Previous years have seen an African festival hosted as well.
And in the coming weeks, you can check out these three major events:
- Chinese Water Splashing Festival on July 28, running all day
- Korean cultural heritage festival on Aug. 3, running from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Philippine cultural heritage festival on Aug. 11, running all day.
Pretty amazing, eh?
If you haven’t visited one of these festivals before, you’re missing out. We’re not talking about a few display tables and some games. We’re talking about parades and bands and copious amounts of food.
The Chinese Water Splashing Festival has dozens of pools set up with people, well, splashing water on each other in a spirit of togetherness. There is also a massive tug-of-war competition.
This year’s event is expected to draw 25,000 people if the weather plays along.
I’m proud of living in a community that is a hub for this kind of community activity.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.
