The region’s cultural diversity will be celebrated at West Zwick’s Park this weekend.
Food remains a large part of the festivities but organizers are also taking it back to the roots of the festival, learning more about the cultures here through music, dance, crafts and activities.
More than 12 countries are represented in the Redpath Multicultural Food Village and the Pop-Ups on the Bay.
OLG’s Mainstage will open on Thursday with Jonathan Maracle, a local and internationally-acclaimed Indigenous artist from Tyendinaga, followed by a Teen Takeover dance party.
Friday features the Decades of Waterfront with perennial favourites, The Commodores, followed by some blues and a dance band during the afternoon and then Waterfront Rocks Again in the evening with Ed’s Garage and Friends – featuring a variety of local talent joining them throughout the evening.
Saturday and Sunday kicks off with the Parade of Nations, and then sounds from around the world including Africa, the Philippines, Mexico, and the Caribbean, with an Indian dance party closing out Saturday evening. On Sunday, we’re off to Italy, France, Scotland and Ireland. Enjoy the music in the pavilion (bring your own chairs) or relax with a beverage from Daft’s Wandering Bar.
The Jalgua Peace Pavilion offers a quiet place for learning about permaculture and reconciliation. Throughout the park you’ll see new buskers along with traditional favourites (the Giraffe Family is here on Saturday) and as always, there will be balloon-twisting, face-painting and craft activities.
A rock climbing wall will be at the main entrance on Thursday and Friday.
Belleville Transit is not able to provide direct access to the park, but the No 4 route will be free from the downtown terminal to the stops along Dundas at the top of the bridge.
Onsite parking is $5. Volunteers appreciate the donation that supports their organizations and the event.
For full details, follow the links at discoverbelleville.ca or the festival website at www.bellevillewaterfrontfestival.com.
