THE Pakistani community is richly comprised of families that have been here
for generations and others that have just arrived on Canadian soil. Today Pakistani-Canadians
form an important part of the cultural fabric of Canada and have richly
contributed to the continued development of this beautiful province.
On several occasions each year, the community comes together to organize
national, cultural and religious events which serves the purpose of not only
bringing Pakistanis together but introducing Pakistan to the greater Canadian
community. August 14, 1947 marks the day when Pakistan was born and entered the
world as an independent and sovereign nation. To celebrate this highly
significant day the Pakistani-Canadian community decided to organize a
“Pakistan Festival” to showcase the cultural heritage, diversity,
geography, music, dress, cuisine, customs and traditions of all corners of Pakistan.
The importance of this event goes beyond providing a venue for families to meet
and have fun; it provides Pakistani-Canadians with a voice and platform to
promote understanding amongst other communities and faith groups. It is our
hope that through this initiative Canadians of all origins will be able to
engage in meaningful dialogue and gain a better understanding of the people of
Pakistan while gaining a greater appreciation for the unique culture of
Pakistan. Above all, this event provides an opportunity for strengthening
friendships and cooperation between those Canadians of Pakistani origin and the
greater Canadian community
The inaugural Pakistan Festival in British Columbia was held at Holland Park in Surrey on August 16, 2009. The first event of its kind in the Lower Mainland, the festival was a resounding success with an estimated attendance of 10,000 people representing the cultural mosaic Canada prides itself on.
Following the success of the inaugural event, the Pakistan Festival became the landmark event for Pakistani-Canadians living in Western Canada and the responsibility for the organization and execution of the Pakistan Festival was delegated by the community to the Pakistan Festival Organizing Committee (the “Committee”), registered as a non-profit body. The Pakistan Festival Organizing Committee Society is a registered society in British Columbia. Its sole mandate is to organize Pakistan Festival on an annual basis.
The Committee is comprised of representatives of various Pakistani Associations in BC including the Pakistan-Canada Association, Pakistani Canadian Cultural Association, Pakistani Youth Council and the Pakistani Canadian Women Society. It also has the full support of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Vancouver.
Pakistan Festival 2019 is taking place at the Tsawwassen Mills Mall on Sunday, August 18 from noon to 8 p.m. The event promises to build upon the successes of the past events while adding new and exciting attractions. Pakistani products and handicrafts will proudly be on hand for sale and display. Our expanded food pavilion promises to be a highlight of this year’s festival showcasing the taste of not only traditional Pakistani dishes but other local and ethnic flavors. Local artists will display their talents. A fashion show will illuminate the wide array of Pakistani dress and style while a children’s tableau will fill the grounds with the sights and sounds of traditional and contemporary Pakistani song and dance. Plenty of games, magic shows and other attractions will be available for children throughout the entire event. Admission to the event is free of cost to anyone wishing to attend.
(Article and photos contributed)
