A Decade of Monsoon Festival Celebrated Across Surrey and Vancouver

This August, Surrey and Vancouver will come alive with the colours, sounds, and stories of South Asian culture as the Monsoon Festival of Performing Arts returns for its 10th year. Running from August 7 to 17, the annual festival features a rich blend of theatre, comedy, dance, and visual art—marking a major milestone for British Columbia’s arts scene.

Honouring 20 Years of the South Asian Arts Society

The 2024 edition is especially meaningful, as it also marks 20 years since the founding of the South Asian Arts Society, the group behind the festival. Established in 2005, the Society has spent two decades promoting South Asian voices and stories across B.C.
“This is a monumental year for us,” said Gurpreet Sian, co-founder and producer. “It’s not just a celebration of the festival’s growth, but of the artists and communities that have shaped it.”

Theatre Weekend Brings Cultural Narratives to Surrey

Surrey plays host to two standout theatrical events during the first weekend:

• “Gemini” – an immersive, site-specific theatrical experience
• “Sikligar” – a Punjabi-language poetic drama by Bir Btaalvi, staged on August 9 at the Surrey Arts Centre Studio Theatre

“Sikligar” explores the emotional journey of Akash, a South Asian immigrant grappling with memory, identity, and displacement. Through symbolic storytelling and live music, the play offers a powerful reflection on the immigrant experience.

Comedy Takes the Spotlight with The Comic Singh

On August 16, popular comedian Manpreet Singh, also known as The Comic Singh, headlines a family-friendly comedy night at the Surrey Arts Centre. Singh, a former pizza delivery driver turned global entertainer, brings sharp wit and heartfelt stories to the stage, offering a lighter yet meaningful addition to the festival lineup.

Dance Classes and Cultural Archives Enrich the Experience

The festival also invites the community to take part in by-donation dance workshops on August 10 and 17 at the South Asian Arts Studio in Newton, led by instructors Raja Singh and Rohan D’Silva. Registration is open at monsoonartsfest.ca.

Meanwhile, the Surrey Art Gallery is hosting “20 Years of South Asian Arts: A Photographic Journey” from August 2 to November 2. This special exhibit showcases the Society’s legacy through powerful archival images of past performances, artists, and community moments.

Festival Launches in Vancouver

The celebration officially begins on August 7 with a launch event at The Cultch Historic Theatre in Vancouver. The opening night sets the tone for 11 days of cross-cultural exchange, artistic exploration, and community connection across both cities.

For the full schedule, tickets, and event details, visit monsoonartsfest.ca.

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Cultural Connections Take Centre Stage in Summerside

Islanders and newcomers came together on Sunday, July 28, at the Lefurgey Cultural Centre in Summerside, P.E.I., for the fourth stop of the DiverseCity Festival—an event celebrating multiculturalism and community. Hosted by the Immigration and Refugee Services Association (IRSA), the event aimed to create bridges between long-time residents and new Canadians through food, music, and performance.

Local Talent Shines in a Global Celebration

One of the standout moments came from 10-year-old Quincy Cumayas, who recently immigrated from the Philippines. Taking the stage for the first time at a DiverseCity event, she performed songs including O Canada and the Filipino national anthem. “It’s very fun actually,” Cumayas said. “I can meet other people, like other cultures.”

A Culinary Tour of the World in One Afternoon

From traditional Afghani dishes to Filipino, Indian, and Mexican offerings, the festival gave attendees a chance to savour international flavours. Said Akbar Sadat, an Afghan-Canadian living in P.E.I. since 2007, began cooking at 4 a.m. to serve his native cuisine. “They love it,” Sadat said of festivalgoers. “They said it’s unique.”

Music, Dance, and Shared Joy

Festival co-ordinator Hai Nguyen, originally from Vietnam, emphasized how powerful shared experiences like music and dance can be—even across language barriers. “I feel so happy when I see them with different kinds of languages,” he said. “We have dancing, we have singing, and we have instruments… I really enjoy the melody.”

A Growing Celebration Across Prince Edward Island

Summerside marked the fourth of seven DiverseCity events scheduled across P.E.I. this summer. The next stop is set for Three Rivers on August 3. Organizers say each event helps newcomers feel more at home while giving longtime Islanders a deeper appreciation of Canada’s evolving cultural landscape.

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Festival Returns with Rich Cultural Showcase

The 23rd annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival is set to take place on July 12–13, bringing a vibrant celebration of Chinese Canadian heritage to one of the city’s oldest and most storied neighbourhoods. The event, which draws thousands of visitors annually, promises two days filled with cultural performances, traditional cuisine, artisan vendors, and historical tours that honour the past while looking toward the future.

Celebrating Community and Identity

According to Bob Sung, founder of A Wok Around Chinatown and third-generation Chinese Canadian, the festival is more than a street event—it’s a tribute to a resilient community. “It’s a celebration of our roots, our character, the people, the food, and the merchants,” said Sung, who has been offering guided food and history tours in Chinatown for nearly two decades.

His work is personal. His family has deep culinary roots in British Columbia, and he sees food as a powerful medium to tell the story of Chinese immigrants in Canada. “My generation, my parents’ generation—we had to assimilate. But now it’s time to showcase our culture and heritage,” he added.

Historic Chinatown in the Spotlight

Vancouver’s Chinatown dates back to the 1880s, when Chinese immigrants, facing systemic discrimination, created a tight-knit community in the area. The neighbourhood is now home to various Chinese associations and historical landmarks. Its blend of Western and traditional Guangdong architecture makes it one of the most visually distinct areas in the city.

Part of the area holds Canadian heritage status, and efforts are underway to preserve even more. “The Chinese community is pursuing a 10-year application to have two blocks designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site,” Sung revealed. “That’s how proud we are of this history.”

What to Expect at This Year’s Event

Festival-goers can expect live music, lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, Chinese calligraphy, culinary tastings, and interactive workshops. Local merchants and artists will be featured, offering a variety of handmade goods and cultural artifacts.

The streets will come alive with colour, sound, and scent, offering something for all ages. Sung will be among the highlights, guiding visitors through the lanes of Chinatown with stories, flavours, and lived experience.

Cultural Legacy and Modern Revival

While the area has faced economic and social challenges in recent years, the festival plays a key role in revitalizing the community and drawing attention to its historic significance. For Sung and others, the event is a powerful reminder of the cultural resilience that defines Chinatown.

“We’re not just preserving history—we’re living it,” Sung said.

The Vancouver Chinatown Festival runs Saturday and Sunday, July 12–13, 2025, with events scheduled throughout the neighbourhood. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

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Pop Icon Gwen Stefani to Headline July 27 Concert

Gwen Stefani has been confirmed as a headline performer at the 2025 Churchill Park Music Festival in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Organizers announced the addition of the global pop sensation on Friday, thrilling fans across the country ahead of the highly anticipated five-day event.

Festival Dates and Ticket Information

The Churchill Park Music Festival is set to take place from July 25 to July 29. Stefani will take the stage on Saturday, July 27, with her opening acts yet to be revealed. Tickets will be available for purchase starting Tuesday, July 8, through the official festival website and select retail partners.

Festival Location and Venue Appeal

Located in the heart of St. John’s, Churchill Park has become a major destination for music lovers every summer. With its open-air ambiance and scenic backdrop, the park provides an ideal venue for high-profile performances, drawing attendees from across Atlantic Canada and beyond.

Why This Lineup Matters

Stefani’s addition to the lineup adds significant star power to an already impressive roster, which includes Def Leppard, The Killers, the Sam Roberts Band, and her husband, country star Blake Shelton, who is scheduled to perform the night before on July 26. The back-to-back performances by the celebrity couple are expected to be a major draw for attendees.

How Stefani Rose to Fame

A music icon since the 1990s, Stefani first made waves as the lead vocalist of the ska-punk band No Doubt. With hits like “Don’t Speak” and “Just a Girl,” she quickly became a household name. Her solo career, launched in 2004, cemented her as a pop powerhouse, boasting over 60 million records sold and multiple Billboard chart-toppers.

What to Expect from the Festival Experience

This year’s Churchill Park Music Festival promises an eclectic mix of rock, pop, and country music, offering something for every genre lover. Food vendors, merchandise stalls, and interactive installations will enhance the overall experience for attendees throughout the five-day celebration of music.

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Canada Day Festival Returns to Cloverdale July 1

Surrey’s flagship Canada Day celebration is set for Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre in Cloverdale. The all-day, free-admission festival will run from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., ending with a large-scale fireworks display. It is billed as Western Canada’s largest Canada Day party, attracting tens of thousands of attendees annually.

National Artists Headline the Entertainment Lineup

The main stage will feature The Reklaws, the Ontario-based sibling country duo known for chart-topping hits. Joining them are Canadian singer-songwriter Goldie Boutilier, Indigenous rocker Garret T. Willie, and many other national talents. Live entertainment will run across four dedicated stages, covering music, dance, and cultural performances throughout the day.

Attractions Include Rides, DJs, Food, and Beer Garden

Festivalgoers can expect a wide range of attractions beyond music. The site will include amusement rides, food trucks, interactive dance battles, and DJ sets. A site-wide licensed beer garden will allow visitors to enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout the grounds, offering a festival-style experience for adults.

Community Focus and Family-Friendly Activities

The event is designed to be inclusive and family-oriented, offering kids’ play zones, community booths, local vendors, and multicultural showcases. Organizers encourage attendees to come dressed in red and white and bring Canadian flags to celebrate the nation’s 158th birthday in true patriotic spirit.

Location, Transport, and Visitor Information

The venue is located at 176 Street and 64 Avenue, near Highway 15 in Cloverdale. The City of Surrey recommends public transit, bike access, or carpooling to ease traffic congestion. Free bike parking will be available, and a detailed festival schedule can be found at SurreyCanadaDay.ca.

Digital Access and Additional Resources

To help visitors prepare, the city has released a Surrey Canada Day 2025 Spotify playlist, featuring performing artists. A full event guide titled “10 Must-Dos” is also available on the official website, along with a promotional video previewing the day’s highlights.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

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Festival Launches at Charlottetown Waterfront

The 2025 DiverseCity Festival began its vibrant summer run on Sunday, June 22, with a colourful celebration at Charlottetown’s bustling waterfront. Hosted by the Immigrant and Refugee Services Association (IRSA), the festival drew large crowds eager to experience food, music, and performances from a range of cultural communities.

Island-Wide Cultural Celebration Planned

This year’s DiverseCity Festival features seven community events across Prince Edward Island. Following the Charlottetown launch, the next stop is scheduled for Alberton. Each event aims to foster inclusion and cultural pride among newcomers and long-time Islanders alike.

Organizers Highlight Cultural Exchange

Dean Constable, executive director of IRSA and co-host of Sunday’s event, emphasized the collaborative and welcoming spirit of the festival.
“We’ve got performers from all sorts of cultural backgrounds,” he said. “Some are newcomers, some are long-time residents collaborating on cross-cultural performances. It’s a true celebration of community and diversity.”

Young Performer Shares Heritage Through Dance

Among the many performances, 17-year-old Lotte Zhang captivated audiences with a traditional Chinese dragon dance. Performing fifth in a group of nine dancers, Zhang described the experience as both exhilarating and meaningful.
“It’s like an experience I’ve never really had before,” Zhang shared. “We each hold part of the dragon and follow the lead. It’s about teamwork—and sharing our heritage.”

A Platform for Cultural Expression

Zhang expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his roots alongside others from different backgrounds.
“I think it’s great that we get so much diversity here,” he said. “Everyone gets to show off their own culture, and we all learn something new.”

Community Impact and Continued Engagement

The DiverseCity Festival is part of Prince Edward Island’s growing commitment to multicultural inclusion. By spotlighting newcomer voices and long-established traditions, organizers hope to strengthen social ties across communities throughout the summer.

 For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

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Celebration of Culture Takes Centre Stage

A vibrant cultural celebration is underway at Toronto’s Fort York National Historic Site, where the Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Powwow is drawing crowds in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, observed each year on June 21. The two-day event began Friday, June 21, and will continue until Saturday evening at 8 p.m.

Festival Showcases Rich Indigenous Traditions

Organized by the City of Toronto in collaboration with Native Men’s Residence (Na-Me-Res), the festival is a free public event that features a blend of traditional and contemporary Indigenous music, dance, art, and cuisine. Artisans from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Turtle Island are showcasing their work, creating an immersive cultural experience for attendees.

Emphasis on Healing, Gathering, and Reconciliation

Cathie Jameson of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation opened the event with a traditional welcome. She emphasized the power of powwows in urban spaces like Toronto, describing them as vital opportunities for connection, healing, and honouring ancestors.
“Gathering is part of reconciliation. It helps us heal trauma,” Jameson said. “You’re acknowledging past, present, and future.”

Dignitaries and Cultural Programming Highlight Day Two

On Saturday, the festival will include a full lineup of performances, community booths, and traditional ceremonies, with Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expected to make an appearance in the evening. The event also features Indigenous cuisine, inviting visitors to taste and experience the diversity of Indigenous culinary traditions.

National Significance on the Summer Solstice

National Indigenous Peoples Day coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year—a day that holds deep spiritual and cultural importance in Indigenous communities. According to the Government of Canada, this day has long been used by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples to honour their cultures, languages, and heritage.

Community Engagement Reflects Broader Commitment

The Fort York celebration reflects Canada’s broader efforts toward cultural reconciliation and recognition of Indigenous Peoples. Events like this not only foster cultural appreciation but also play a crucial role in community education and unity. As Jameson noted, such gatherings create space to “feast, speak, and see one another”—a powerful act of solidarity and respect.

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A Celebration of Canadian Creativity

Ready for a weekend of fresh stories and bold visions? The 15th annual Vancouver Short Film Festival is back, running June 13-15 at SFU Goldcorp Centre for the Arts and online via Eventive. With 47 short films from across Canada, the festival is a treasure trove of documentaries, animation, experimental student works, genre twists, comedies, and horror—all packed into six themed blocks. Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for something new, there’s plenty to love1.

More Than Just Movies: Events and Experiences

Beyond the films, the festival offers a full slate of events. An opening night gala brings food trucks, live music, and even a caricature artist to the mix. Filmmaker workshops cover pitching and self-presentation, while the closing awards presentation and party cap off the weekend. Tickets start at $20 for a single entry or $100 for a pass ($60 for students), so it’s easy to dive in.

Five Films You Won’t Want to Miss

Here are five standout shorts that deserve a spot on your must-watch list:

• Clementine
  This Toronto-made comedy-drama follows a woman who gets the wake-up call she needs—thanks to a shocking discovery. Allie Dunbar shines as Clementine, with a deadpan style and a charming guardian angel played by Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll. Witty, heartfelt, and pitch-perfect.

• Queen of the Underworld
  Part of the After Dark block, this Vancouver horror-drama stars Morgan Taylor Campbell as a woman grappling with grief and addiction. Writer-director Stephanie Iszak crafts a dark, emotional tale that’s already earned two Leo nominations.

• Or Forever Hold Your Peace
  Toronto’s Tope Babalola delivers a sleek, 20-minute comedy-drama about Gen-Zers navigating love and life. Kalissa Persaud stands out as a maid of honour determined to keep the wedding on track—no matter what. With crisp cinematography and sharp humor, this one’s a winner.

• Lost Media
  Vancouver’s Rebeca Spiegel brings a unique stop-motion meditation on memory and nostalgia to the animated shorts block. “Lost Media” is a five-minute gem that reflects on discarded media and 20-something ennui, with a nod to Laika the Soviet space dog.

• Serious Buyers Only
  Toronto writer-director Samuel Larson offers a quirky comedy-drama about a young couple, a pharmaceutical family, and a fight over an empty lot. While the message might be up for debate, the strong performances and comic timing make this short a joy to watch.

Why You Should Go

The Vancouver Short Film Festival is a chance to see the future of Canadian filmmaking—right now. With a mix of genres, styles, and voices, it’s a celebration of creativity and community. So grab your tickets, gather your friends, and get ready for a weekend of unforgettable stories.

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Celebrate Community and Tradition in the Heart of Vancouver

Mark your calendars for a weekend bursting with color, flavor, and community spirit. The 23rd-annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival returns this July, inviting everyone to experience the vibrant heart of one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Organized by the Vancouver Chinatown Business Improvement Area Society (VCBIA), this free, all-ages event promises unforgettable memories and a taste of local culture.

When and Where to Join the Festivities

The festival kicks off on Saturday, July 12, and continues through Sunday, July 13, from noon to 6 p.m. each day. The action unfolds along Keefer and Columbia streets, where the streets come alive with music, dance, and family-friendly activities.

What’s Happening at the Festival?

Prepare for a dazzling lineup of entertainment that celebrates the rich diversity of Vancouver’s Chinatown. Highlights include performances by the Boogaloo Dance Academy, Colours of Dance Academy, and the marimba ensemble Muevete. Music lovers will enjoy sets from the B.C. Chinese Music Association and the rock/pop group Rain City 6. Cultural showcases feature Japanese Yosakoi dance by Appare and Brazilian rhythms by Samba Fusion, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Family Fun and Hands-On Activities

The Children’s Theatre area is bigger and better than ever, with magician Blake Aleong and a host of new attractions. Watch as giant bubble stilt walkers roam the festival, or join in with Story on Wheels and Science World On the Road. Kids can get creative with face painting, balloon twisting, t-shirt painting, MiniMakers crafts, and games throughout the day.

Step into the Cultural Zone for walking tours led by Bob Sung of A Wok Around, Chinese painting and calligraphy demonstrations, mini massages, and workshops on making paper lanterns and fans. Don’t miss the giant Mahjong board for a unique group experience.

Join the Hunt: Where’s Van Van the Panda?

Festival-goers can take part in the interactive “Where’s Van Van the Panda?” contest. Track the festival’s mascot using the Vancouver Chinatown Festival app or follow @visitchinatown on Instagram for a chance to win tickets to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Chinese Canadian Museum, and Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Savor Local Flavors and Shop the Market

No festival is complete without delicious food and unique finds. The Artisans Market offers products from local makers and food vendors. Meanwhile, nearby favorites like New Town Bakery and Fat Mao Noodles serve up classic Chinatown flavors for every palate.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

“The Vancouver Chinatown Festival is a celebration of culture, community, and connection,” says Joey Kwan, executive director of VCBIA. “We’re proud to see the festival continue to grow with new and returning experiences for all ages. It’s a reflection of the energy and resilience that define Chinatown, and we can’t wait to share this year’s festivities with everyone.”

Grab your friends and family and head to Chinatown this July for a weekend of free, fun, and unforgettable experiences.

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Major Sponsors Withdraw, But Pride Toronto Pushes Forward

Pride Toronto, one of Canada’s most celebrated 2SLGBTQ+ festivals, is facing a significant challenge this year as two major sponsors—Google and Home Depot—have decided to withdraw their support. Another sponsor, Merck Canada, has also reduced its financial contribution, according to executive director Kojo Modeste.

Despite these setbacks, Modeste assures the community that the festival, set to begin in June, will continue as planned. “It is sad,” Modeste shared, “not just for us as an organization, but for the artists and the community that look forward to everything Pride has to offer.” With over 300 artists, most of them Canadian, already committed, Pride Toronto is determined not to scale back.

Sponsors Cite Shifting Priorities

Home Depot confirmed its decision to step back, stating it regularly reviews its charitable commitments and will not be sponsoring the event this year. However, the company emphasized its ongoing support for Pride activities across Canada and expressed interest in future collaborations.

Nissan Canada and Adidas have also not renewed their sponsorships, while The Abnormal Beauty Company and Tim Hortons have reduced their contributions. Nissan Canada attributed its decision to a re-evaluation of marketing priorities and budget for the new fiscal year.

Community Resilience in the Face of Challenges

The loss of sponsorships comes amid a broader trend of companies reconsidering their support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Modeste noted that earlier this year, three other major sponsors also withdrew, possibly due to backlash against DEI programs.

Despite these financial hurdles, the spirit of Pride remains unbroken. Artin Avaznia, a solo dance artist producing “Underground Pride” at the Drake Hotel Underground, highlighted the resilience of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. “We always rise,” Avaznia said. “They could pull out their money, but that won’t erase our impact on culture.”

Rallying Support for Pride Toronto

With reduced corporate backing, Pride Toronto is now appealing to individuals, local businesses, and all levels of government for support. Modeste is confident that Canadians will step up: “The 2SLGBTQ+ community has been in worse positions and we did not stay there. I believe Canadians will come forward and show up for Pride Toronto and other Prides across Canada.”

Festival Theme: “All In” for 2025

This year’s festival theme, “All In,” is a call for unity and solidarity. The event will especially highlight the transgender and non-binary community, inviting everyone to stand together for a future where all Canadians can live authentically.

Pride Month kicks off June 1 in Toronto, and organizers are encouraging the public to come out and show their support. As Modeste puts it, “We do have a plan in place. Don’t be worried. Pride will go on.”

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