Are you ready for an amazing adventure that takes you through the exciting cultures of North and South America without even leaving Calgary? That’s right, GlobalFest 2024 is all about bringing together a mix of wonderful traditions, foods, and music from across the Americas right here in our city. And why do we do this? Because learning about other cultures is not only fun, but it also helps us understand and appreciate each other better.

At GlobalFest 2024, each corner of the park is a new place to explore. You can watch live performances that make you feel like you’re really there—from the energetic dances of Brazil to the beautiful folk songs of the United States. 

And it’s not just about watching; it’s about tasting, too! Imagine trying out tasty treats from different parts of the Americas while you walk around enjoying the music and dances. Plus, there are lots of fun games and activities for kids to join so they can learn cool stuff about other cultures while playing.

So, gather your family and friends, and get ready to have a fantastic time at GlobalFest 2024. It’s a super way to spend a summer day and make some new memories while celebrating the diversity that makes our world amazing!

What is Diversity and Why Do We Celebrate It?

Diversity means having lots of different types of people and cultures all together in one place. Think about it like a giant potluck where everyone brings their own dish from home. Some people might bring tacos, others bring sushi, and some might bring poutine! 

Each dish is unique and tells a story about the family’s background. By sharing these dishes, everyone gets a taste of each other’s life and learns something new. That’s exactly what diversity does—it brings everyone’s stories and traditions together, making our community richer and more interesting.

We celebrate diversity because it’s important to know and understand each other. It helps us see the world from different perspectives and build friendships with people who might not look, speak, or live like we do. 

Here at our festival, we believe that the more we learn about each other, the more respect and kindness we can spread. Celebrating diversity makes us all better friends and neighbours, and it’s super fun, too. You get to try new things, listen to different music, and see dances you might never have seen before!

Spotlight on Cultural Performances from the Americas

Every year, we bring amazing performances from across the Americas right here to Calgary for everyone to enjoy. Imagine watching dancers swirling in colourful costumes or listening to drum beats that make your feet start tapping. This year, we’ve got some especially exciting acts lined up. From the lively samba rhythms of Brazil to the soulful folk tunes of the United States, there’s something that will catch everyone’s eye—and ear!

Performers come from different parts of North and South America to show us a piece of their culture. For example, you might see a dance group from Mexico that tells a story through their movements and costumes about their country’s history. Or, you could watch a band from Canada playing songs that have been in their families for generations. These performances aren’t just cool to watch; they’re like live lessons in history and geography!

To make sure you get the most out of these performances, keep your eyes open for the special moments that make each culture unique. Notice the colours, listen to the words of the songs, and feel the energy of the dancers. It’s a fantastic way to travel to these places without ever leaving the park!

A Taste of the Americas: Exploring GlobalFest’s International Food Offerings

When you visit us at GlobalFest, bring your appetite, because we’re serving up a delectable tour of North and South American cuisines that will tantalise your taste buds! From savoury to sweet, each stall at our festival is a mini adventure into the heart of different cultures. Imagine biting into a spicy, flavour-packed taco from Mexico, or savouring a slice of creamy, sweet Brazilian brigadeiro cake. It’s like a culinary road trip across the continent!

Our food pavilions are more than just eating spots; they’re places where you can see and learn how these tasty dishes are made. Many of our vendors are happy to share stories about the origins of their dishes as they cook. This way, you get a scoop of culture with every bite. 

Whether it’s a freshly grilled arepa from Colombia or a hearty platter of poutine from Canada, you’ll understand a bit more about the places they come from and the people who made them. Remember to try something new—you might find your new favourite food right here with us!

Fun for All Ages: Children’s Activities that Teach Cultural Appreciation

Nurturing an appreciation for diverse cultures starts young, and at GlobalFest, we make learning about the world fun for every kid. Our children’s activities are designed to be hands-on and educational, making them perfect for little learners eager to explore. They can participate in craft-making sessions where they create traditional art pieces from different cultures, like Mexican papel picado or Native Canadian dreamcatchers, which they can take home as a keepsake of their day with us.

Moreover, our storytelling corners are magical places where tales from the Americas come to life. Through captivating stories and folktales, children learn about the values, adventures, and lessons that are cherished in cultures different from their own. It’s about seeing the world through another’s eyes, even if just for a few moments. Watching children’s faces light up as they connect with stories from faraway places is truly a highlight for us every year. It shows that, even in small ways, we’re helping forge future citizens who value and respect global diversity.

Celebrating Together: The Heart of GlobalFest

As our wonderful day winds down, let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve shared. GlobalFest isn’t just an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of the beautiful mosaic that is our world. Each performance, dish, and activity is a thread in the larger tapestry of our shared human experience. In bringing together the cultures of the Americas, we create a space for understanding, joy, and unity.

We want to thank everyone from Calgary and beyond who joins us in celebrating this spirit of togetherness. Your enthusiasm and engagement make GlobalFest what it is—a festival of lights, colours, and smiles. If you’ve never been, or if you’re thinking about coming back, we invite you to join us in the best multicultural event in Alberta. Discover, learn, and have fun at GlobalFest. It’s an exhilarating way to end your summer with a burst of energy and joy. See you there!