USask CI Participated In the 2023 Saskatoon Folkfest

The Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan (USask CI) and the Federation of Saskatoon Chinese Canadian Organizations (FSCCO) co-organized the 2023 Saskatoon Folkfest Chinese Pavilion.

From August 17 to 19, the 2023 Folkfest was held in the city of Saskatoon. The Saskatoon Folkfest is an annual multicultural festival. It celebrates the diverse heritage and cultural traditions of various communities within the city and beyond. The festival typically showcases cultural pavilions representing different countries and ethnicities, allowing attendees to experience a wide range of performances, foods, arts, crafts, and activities from around the world. This year’s Folkfest included 17 pavilions spread out across the city. The Confucius Institute at the University of Saskatchewan (USask CI) and the Federation of Saskatoon Chinese Canadian Organizations (FSCCO) co-organized the Chinese Pavilion at the Prairieland Park Hall B. 

                      Mr. Zhuoyang Li, President of FSCCO gave a welcome speech

The Chinese Pavilion offered a rich cultural journey to visitors through live performances, interactive displays, traditional cuisine, and educational exhibits. Visitors gained a close-up experience of the profound Chinese culture. The audiences were amazed by the lion dance, Chinese traditional instrument performances, fashion show and the classic Chinese dance presented by the USask CI performing team. 

 

 

Many organizations from the local Chinese community also participated in the Folkfest stage. These organizations included the Chinese Dance School of Saskatchewan (CDSS), Saskatoon Linglong Hanfu Society, the Chinese Martial Arts Academy, and the Saskatoon Qipao Association. Additionally, hundreds of volunteers from the USask CI, the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA), and the local communities dedicated their time to ensuring the success of the event.

the Chinese Martial Arts Academy

the Chinese Dance School of Saskatchewan (CDSS)

Saskatoon Linglong Hanfu Society

Saskatoon Qipao Association

At the cultural display table, people lined up to receive their Chinese names, purchase Chinese calligraphy art crafts, acquire Chinese cultural books, and try on traditional Chinese clothing. The authentic Chinese foods, such as Roujiamo and handmade noodles, were incredibly popular and delicious.

 

 

During the Folkfest, MP Brad Redekopp, Mayor Charlie Clark, Fire Chief Morgan Hacki, and many honorable guests visited the Chinese Pavilion. Ms. ZHAO Liying, the consul-general of the People’s Republic of China in Calgary, along with her delegation, also visited the Chinese Pavilion. Zhao met with performers and volunteers, expressing high appreciation for everyone's dedicated efforts in showcasing and promoting Chinese traditional culture, as well as enhancing multicultural exchange. Zhao encouraged everyone to continue playing an active role in inheriting China's excellent traditional culture and deepening the friendly relations between China and Canada.

 ZHAO Liying, the consul-general of the People’s Republic of China in Calgary visited Chinese Pavilion

Mayor Charlie Clark and Chinese Pavilion volunteers

The Saskatoon Folkfest has become an important event on the city's cultural calendar. It not only showcases the diverse backgrounds of Saskatoon's residents but also helps build a sense of unity, appreciation for cultural heritage, and celebration of multiculturalism.