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A Taste of Culture: what to expect

May 3, 2017 | 5:00 PM

Bringing people of different races and culture together is the focus on a popular annual event this Friday and Saturday.

The Battlefords Immigration Resource Centre (BIRC) is kicking off the 10th anniversary of A Taste of Culture, an annual celebration of cultural diversity, on May 5 and 6 from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. at the Western Development Museum.

The BIRC is an organization that provides valuable information and services that assist newcomers integrating into Canadian culture, and hosts A Taste of Culture as a means of bringing everyone together regardless of cultural background.

“What we’re trying to do [at BIRC] is show people that there are other cultures here… and to try and cut some of the stigma,” said Annette McGovern, Executive Director of BIRC. “[A Taste of Culture] just kind of brings everyone together all in the same place just to have some fun.”

On multiple occasions, the event has hosted over 5,000 attendees. Last year, the event brought saw approximately 5,400 people attend.

A citizenship ceremony will also begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, and everyone may attend to welcome new 30 Canadians into the community. Those wishing to attend are asked to arrive 15 minutes early as the doors to the ceremony will be shut when it begins.

Following the ceremony, A Taste of Culture will officially kick off at 11 a.m. The event will feature a variety of marketplace booths, activities, musical and cultural dance performances, and a diverse range of food from over a dozen different cultures. In addition, Calgary-based comedian Cory Mack will be emceeing the event.

“There’s something here for everybody from face painting, the food and the entertainment,” said McGovern. “It’ll be a lot of fun­ — a lot of excitement.”

There is no admission fee for the event; however, any food or market purchases will be cash only, so be sure to make a stop at an ATM beforehand.

 

jared.gottselig@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW