Saint John International Culturefest receives $61,000 from Ottawa

People celebrate International Culturefest in Saint John in an undated photo. (Source: Facebook/Culture Fest Saint John)

Saint John’s International Culturefest is receiving a boost.

The Government of Canada is spending $61,000 to support this year’s event as well as next year’s. International Culturefest is hosted by the Saint John Multicultural and Newcomers Resource Centre.

The announcement was made on the first day of this year’s festival.

“Events like the International Culturefest bring communities together and showcase the strength of Canada’s cultural diversity. Culture is not only an expression of who we are; it’s a core pillar of our sovereignty and economic strength,” said Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault in a news release Saturday.

“Our government is proud to invest in this gathering that celebrates the rich traditions and talents of both newcomers and long-time residents.”

The festival showcases global cultures and traditions, and features:

• music, dance and theatre performances on the cultural stage
• educational booths run by community partners
• cultural exhibits and discussions, including a living library where people share stories and traditions from their heritage
• food, craft and art vendors representing diverse cultural communities
• a collaborative community street art project
• fun and engaging family-friendly games and activities

“We are deeply grateful for the support from Canadian Heritage, whose two-year funding commitment enables us to continue growing Culturefest as a celebration of the many cultures that enrich Saint John,” said Saint John Newcomers Centre managing director Mohamed Bagha.

“Culturefest brings people together, fosters understanding, and strengthens our community’s social fabric, while also creating opportunities for local artists, performers, vendors and small businesses.”

International Culturefest takes place the first weekend in August. It’s on now until Sunday.

Next year’s festival is scheduled for Aug. 1 and 2, 2026.

The centre said it plans to host a smaller version of the festival in the neighbouring communities of Quispamsis and Rothesay, which will be called Culture Fest in the Valley. The events are scheduled for September 2025 and 2026.

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