Diverse BC Festival 2024

Fostering a Sense of Unity and Appreciation for Diversity.

About the Event

DiverseBC is an immersive celebration of British Columbia’s rich cultural tapestry, organized by the Indo- Pacific Foundation of Canada. This event offers attendees a vibrant and authentic experience that showcases the diverse cultures that thrive within our province. This festival aims to create a platform where everyone can find something to cherish, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for diversity.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
  • Flight Paths Entrance: As attendees enter the park, they will be greeted by a visually stunning display of flight paths representing the diverse communities of British Columbia. Each flight path leads to a different pavilion, setting the stage for a cultural journey like no other.
  • Kids Pavilion: Children can kick off their DiverseBC experience at the Kids Pavilion, where they can enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, and interactive activities with clowns and entertainers.
  • Country Pavilions: Explore seven pavilions representing India, China, Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and the First Nations. Each pavilion offers a sensory feast with 2-3 food trucks serving authentic cuisine, arts and handicrafts exhibitions, and financial literacy workshops provided by partnering banks.
  • World Film Pavilion:Immerse yourself in the cinematic treasures of the Indo-Pacific region at the World Film Pavilion, where a curated selection of films from participating countries will be screened throughout the day.
  • Entrepreneurs Den: Discover innovation and creativity at the Entrepreneurs Den, where young entrepreneurs from local universities showcase their companies and products. Engage with the next generation of business leaders and learn about their ventures shaping the future of British Columbia.
  • Health Pavilion: Take a moment to prioritize your well-being at the Health Pavilion, where professionals from Surrey Hospital offer complimentary blood pressure and glucose level checks, along with valuable health literacy resources.
  • Kids Carnival Rides: After traversing the pavilions, children can enjoy a variety of carnival rides and attractions, adding an extra element of fun and excitement to their DiverseBC experience.
  • Cultural Performances: Conclude your journey at the Indo-Pacific stage, where captivating cultural performances await. From traditional dances and music to storytelling and theatrical presentations, these performances celebrate the rich heritage of Indo-Pacific communities and the First Nations.

* The event is accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities, with designated areas and accommodations available for those with mobility challenges.

Our Sponsors

Corporate Sponsors

Community Sponsor

Pavilion Description

Entrepreneurs Den

This area will serve as a platform for budding entrepreneurs from UBC/SFU to showcase their start-ups and products. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the entrepreneurs, learn about their innovative ideas, and potentially support local businesses. Workshops or panel discussions can be organized to provide guidance and mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Food Trucks and Arts/Crafts

Each country-specific pavilion, including the First Nations stall, will feature 2-3 food trucks serving authentic cuisine, as well as arts and crafts stalls showcasing traditional handicrafts. Arts and crafts stalls will showcase handcrafted items such as pottery, textiles, jewelry, and artwork, allowing visitors to purchase unique souvenirs and gifts.

Kids Pavilion

Dedicated to children's entertainment, these pavilions will offer arts and crafts activities, face painting, and other engaging experiences tailored for young visitors. Arts and crafts stations will offer a variety of creative activities, including painting (face painting booths), sculpting, and DIY projects, fostering imagination and artistic expression.

Financial Literacy

A bank from each represented country will provide financial literacy education to visitors, empowering them with knowledge and skills for financial well-being. Representatives from partnering banks will conduct interactive sessions on financial literacy, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and responsible borrowing. Visitors can engage in one-on-one consultations to address their specific financial questions and concerns, promoting financial empowerment and stability within the community.

Country Specific Pavilion

Six pavilions representing Indo-Pacific countries- India, China, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines - will offer visitors a glimpse into the unique cultures, cuisines, arts, and crafts of each nation. Additionally, there will be a stall representing the First Nations, honoring and celebrating the indigenous peoples of the region. Live demonstrations of cultural practices such as calligraphy, origami, martial arts, and traditional dances will offer an immersive experience.

Health Pavilion

Partnering with Surrey Hospital, this pavilion will offer free blood pressure checks and instant blood sugar checks, promoting the importance of health and well-being within the community. Surrey Hospital staff will conduct free health screenings, including blood pressure checks and blood sugar tests, promoting preventive care and wellness awareness. Educational materials on nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention will be available, empowering visitors to make informed choices about their health and lifestyle

World Cinema Pavilion

A cinematic journey awaits visitors as they enjoy handpicked films from the six Indo-Pacific countries, providing a glimpse into their diverse cultures and storytelling traditions. Movie screenings will be accompanied by brief introductions highlighting cultural insights and themes, enhancing viewers' appreciation and understanding of each country's cinema.

Carnival Rides

Kids will delight in carnival-like rides, adding an element of fun and excitement to the festival atmosphere. • A variety of kid-friendly rides, such as carousels, mini roller coasters, and inflatable bounce houses, will provide entertainment and excitement for young attendees. • Safety measures and trained staff will ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Amphitheater Performances

Cultural programs, including song, dance, bands, and stand-up comedy, will be showcased in the amphitheater, representing the diverse Indo-Pacific communities and adding to the festive ambiance. Artists representing Indo-Pacific communities will take the stage, celebrating their cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural exchange and appreciation.

Join us in embracing diversity, fostering connections, and creating cherished memories at this inclusive and vibrant event.

REGISTER HERE

Diverse Registration (#6)