The Ethiopian Community Association of BC (ECABC) has long served as a central hub for many Ethiopians living in the region, offering various forms of support and fostering community. Through its range of services – including mentorship programs, language classes and health navigation – the association has looked to serve as a point of community for newcomers, helping them navigate the challenges of settling into a new country while maintaining ties to their heritage.
On Aug 31, the ECABC will host its annual Ethiopian Community Summer Festival, a day that brings people of all cultures together. But the event aims to be more than just a gathering, also serving as a moment for connection, reflection and mutual appreciation of the cultural mosaic that makes up the province.
The Summer Festival serves as an extension of the association’s mission to serve as a space where culture and community intersect. The annually celebrated festival looks to fill Burnaby’s Edmonds Park with music, dance and food, where the sounds, tastes and traditions of Ethiopia are shared and celebrated.
But beyond the cultural showcases, the festival is also about people, including the connections formed and the stories shared. It’s an opportunity for British Columbians of all backgrounds to come together, learn from one another and celebrate what makes each person unique.
Among the highlights of the festival is the marketplace, where local artisans and small businesses will showcase their work. From handcrafted goods to culinary delights, the marketplace offers a window into the culture and creativity within the Ethiopian community. It’s a space where visitors can explore Ethiopian crafts, sample delicious food and support local talent.
The festival will also feature local and national artists including DJ Yared Meslin from Toronto to offer up summer beats to soundtrack the festivities.
As the Ethiopian Community Summer Festival approaches, it offers a window into the everyday traditions and rich heritage of Ethiopia. The festival looks to go beyong being a celebration, also serving as a chance to engage with the cultural practices that continue to shape the lives of Ethiopian families in British Columbia. It’s a moment to honor the roots of a community that has made this province its home – and to share in the simple, meaningful connections that culture and tradition foster.
For more information about the festival and the ECABC, visit: www.vancouverethiopia.wildapricot.org
