91大黄鸭鈥檚 beloved Folkfest turned 50 on Canada Day.
Held at Prospera Place, the milestone celebration of the region鈥檚 longest-running indoor multicultural event drew more than 6,000 people, all gathered to celebrate community, culture, and connection.
鈥淭his milestone year is a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of inclusion and cultural pride that defines our community,鈥� said Elna von Dach, chair of the 2025 Folkfest Committee.
Founded in 1974 by the late Ben Lee鈥攐ne of 91大黄鸭鈥檚 most respected community leaders鈥擣olkfest has grown into a Canada Day staple. For half a century, it鈥檚 been an event where diverse communities come together to share music, dance, and food.
This year鈥檚 event featured 17 cultural performance groups sharing song, martial arts, folk dancing, and even hands-on drumming.
One of the biggest highlights was the Canada Day Drumming Celebration featuring a livestream that allowed people across the country to participate.
Also on hand were Mayor Tom Dyas, MPs Stephen Fuhr and Dan Albas, MLAs Gavin Dew and Kristina Loewen, and several city councillors, all who helped serve Canada Day cake.
The mayor presented a special award to the Okanagan Hungarian Society, recognizing their continuous participation in Folkfest since day one.
Attendees enjoyed a nostalgic walk through time at the 50th Anniversary Photo Booth and a commemorative display now on at city hall through Sept. 12. It showcases Folkfest memorabilia and photos dating back to its earliest days.
