Yusuf Mohammed with The Connections Intercultural Association of Medicine Hat said the event is going to be better and bigger than ever with a focus on cultural groups and celebrating reconciliation. (Ross Lavigne/CHAT News)

By Jesse Gill

Two day Canada Day Festival in Medicine Hat to focus on showcasing cultural diversity

Jun 7, 2024 | 5:28 PM

Showcasing cultural diversity will be a key part of the two day Canada Day Festival at Kin Coulee park June 30 and July 1 to celebrate the national holiday.

The Medicine Hat Skateboard Association is helping organize the event which will also feature their Beat the Heat event on Canada at the skate park.

The Connection Intercultural Association of Medicine Hat is working alongside the Skateboard Association to put on the event.

Director Yusuf Mohammed said Medicine Hat is getting more diverse with people moving here from all over the world, and an opportunity to showcase their culture gives them a sense of belonging in the community.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

12h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

18h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

Dec 11, 2024

“It’s also something that promotes shared learning within our community, people to learn from different cultures from around the world, and Canada is just that country that brings people together,” Mohammed said.

“An opportunity to showcase your culture makes you to be part of this community.”

The two days will feature a giant cultural festival to celebrate diversity in our community with lots of dancing, arts and craft included.

Brenda Mercer who is indigenous, is a member of the Canada Day committee with the Skateboard Association.

She said attending events like this where her culture is showcased is important for ReconciliAction.

“We live on this wonderful Blackfoot territory, I think it’s very inclusive with people in a community here, and I think that multiculturalism is very important to include everybody so that no one gets left behind,” Mercer said.

“I think Indigenous people are going to be here on this weekend, and if you could come down, we’d appreciate that.”

The Sunday June 30 night will feature a dance party with bands, DJ’s and fireworks from 9 p.m. to Midnight.

Monday, July 1 will have Yoga, free pancake breakfast, a number of food trucks, vendors, artisans, children’s activities and a variety of sports to participate in running from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.