As you enter the OneWorld Multicultural Festival, the first thing you see are 110 flags from different countries. This vibrant display is a symbol of the rich diversity in Penticton.
Cherry Fernandez helps organize this celebration each year and believes those flags represent the people in the community. “Each flag stands for a client we serve from another country,” she explains. “It visually shows our diversity.”
This year’s festival, held on Saturday, February 22, attracted over 2,000 visitors to the Lakeside Resort, breaking previous attendance records. “Within just the first ten minutes, 500 people came through the doors. That’s when I knew we had something special,” Fernandez said.
The festival ran from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring delicious international food and lively performances. Over 35 countries were highlighted, showcasing their culture through food, music, and dance.
“It’s a beautiful feast for the senses,” Fernandez added. “Events like this bring everyone together and show our strength in diversity.”
This year’s festival honored the late Grace Greyeyes, a respected elder of the Penticton Indian Band. She played a vital role in building relationships across cultures. Until her passing in 2023, she opened each festival with a special prayer.
The entertainment lineup included performances that celebrated cultures from Japan to Scotland, drawing in eager crowds. “People want to connect and create a sense of community,” Fernandez said. “Today was a success, and we’re thrilled with the turnout.”
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Festival|Penticton
