SASKATOON — Felicitas "Fay" Santos-Vargas has been named the 2023 Saskatoon Folkfest’s Honourary Ambassador as a tribute to her dedication to the community and cross-cultural connections for the upcoming annual event that celebrates the city's vibrant cultural tapestry.
The Saskatoon Folkfest Board of Directors’ decision honours Santos-Vargas for her remarkable four decades of unwavering volunteerism, embodying the Folkfest’s spirit. Her exceptional ability to bridge gaps between diverse cultures and backgrounds aligns perfectly with this year's festival theme of "Connecting Communities."
Through her resolute commitment to promoting cultural awareness and safeguarding Filipino heritage, Santos-Vargas inspires the next generation of cultural leaders. Her efforts play a crucial role in sustaining the legacy of Folkfest.
Scheduled from Aug. 17 to 19, this year's Folkfest, themed "Connecting Communities," will unfurl across seven sites and 17 pavilions, with the Iranian community joining as the latest addition to this spectacular showcase of cultural richness. The festival promises an unparalleled experience of diverse local performances, exhibits, activities, and culinary delights.
Saskatoon Folkfest Board of Directors President Kishore Gali said the festival highlights a broader impact in the community.
"Folkfest goes beyond the three-day celebration. By supporting Folkfest, you contribute to year-round programs and services that strengthen the cultural fabric of Saskatoon and the surrounding area,” said Galie.
The pavilions representing Bangladesh, Cameroon, China, Francophone, Germany, India, First Nations and Métis, Ireland, Japan, Norway, Pakistan, the Philippines, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Ukraine (Karpaty) and Vietnam will transport visitors across continents while remaining within the city's bounds.
With the Folkfest ePassport, priced at $16.50 including taxes and fees, attendees will enjoy unlimited admission and complimentary bus transportation to and from all pavilions throughout the festival. Children under twelve will have free entry when accompanied by an adult.
Folkfest's commitment to fostering inclusivity is embodied by its dedicated volunteers, who ardently share their cultural heritage through artistic expressions, culinary delights, and traditions. For more details, visit or follow @stoonfolkfest on social media.
The annual multicultural festival, structured around pavilions, continues to attract tens of thousands of patrons and volunteers, showcasing local cultural arts, cuisines, and histories. The festival mirrors the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, reflecting the vibrant essence of the community it serves.
Over its decades-long history, with more than 50 pavilions, 100,000 volunteers, and 1 million passports, Folkfest is a testament to Saskatoon's enduring commitment to multicultural celebration and understanding.
Folkfest 2023 Pavilion Locations:
Bangladesh Pavilion – 101 Wiggins Avenue Â鶹ÊÓƵ (Brunskill School)
Francophone Pavilion – 2320 Louise Avenue (École Canadienne-Française - Pavilion Gustave-Dubois)
German Pavilion – 3021 Louise Street (Nutana Legion)
First Nations & Métis Pavilion – 168 Wall Street (Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre)
Irish Pavilion – 2002 Arlington Avenue (Nutana Curling Club)
WTC Saskatoon at Prairieland Park - 503 Ruth Street West (six pavilions)
Scottish Pavilion – Hall A
Chinese Pavilion | India Pavilion | Pakistan Pavilion – Hall B
Philippines Pavilion – Hall C
Ukrainian Karpaty Pavilion –– Hall D
International Place 2010 College Drive (Merlis Belsher Place) (six pavilions)
Cameroon Pavilion | Iranian Pavilion | Japanese Pavilion
Norwegian Pavilion | Sri Lanka Pavilion | Vietnamese Pavilion
