If you’ve never been to Fusion Festival, then you’re missing out. The exciting two day festival showcases and celebrates the culture and diversity in our community. It makes sense that the award-winning festival is hosted by Surrey. Fusion Festival was born eight years ago, the same year Surrey was named the cultural capital of Canada. It’s a prestigious title and one we’re extremely proud of. It’s put Surrey on the map as a creative cultural centre. More importantly, it promotes cross cultural sharing and builds awareness, understanding, and community pride.
In the eight years since Fusion Fest’s conception, it’s grown significantly. What began as just twenty-five humble pavilions has now grown to over forty, with more being added each year. And there are as many countries represented as there are pavilions. The weekend-long celebration (that falls on July 18th and 19th this year) brings together cultural and community groups from around the world and more than fifty recording artists and performers.
A visit to each pavilion is an opportunity to sample food from each country, learn about their economies, and discover their arts and crafts. In addition there’s a stage where performers, dancers, and musicians perform arts that are native to their country.
One of this year’s headliners is Jazzy B, who’s also known as the Crowned Prince of Bhangra. This transatlantic superstar who has introduced a fresh new image to the world of Bhangra music was born in Punjab and raised in Canada. The Belle Game, a Vancouver-based band are taking a break from touring Europe and North America to play the festival, too. They weave intricate soundscapes into shadowy, dark-pop rumblings, led by the hypnotic vocals of Andrea Lo. Also playing, is Grammy award winner Jose Feliciano. He’s recognized as the first Latin Artist to cross over into the English music scene and is internationally considered as ‘The Greatest Living Guitarist’. The festival also features Bollywood dancers, Chinese cultural dancers, electronic music duos and Celtic music.
And of course, there’s more than enough fun for the little ones. The on-site Kids World includes crafts, sing-alongs, puppets, storytelling and more!
Don’t miss this opportunity to bask in the festivities and see for yourself why Surrey is the cultural capital of Canada!
Surrey Fusion Festival
July 18-19, 2015
Holland Park