Event Details

Established in 1905, the Pembroke Public Library is a community-centered cultural institution dedicated to promoting literacy, learning, and inclusive cultural programming for residents of Pembroke and the surrounding Ottawa Valley. Originally founded with support from a Carnegie grant, the library has evolved into a vibrant hub for educational programs, arts activities, and community events that serve people of all ages. In addition to its core library services, the Pembroke Public Library delivers a wide range of public programming including author talks, workshops, children’s literacy initiatives, and cultural events, including the Pembroke Multicultural Festival; an annual community celebration featuring music, dance, food, and cultural presentations that reflect the diversity of the region and foster intercultural understanding. The Festival has grown from a small library program in 2006 into the largest multicultural event in Renfrew County.

This application is for the “2026 Pembroke Multicultural Festival”, a two-day cultural celebration taking place July 17 and 18, 2026 at Pembroke Waterfront Park and the Riverwalk Amphitheatre. Programming includes: (1) Live cultural performances: a weekend lineup of multicultural music, dance, and cultural presentations delivered on the Riverwalk Amphitheatre stage by performers from across Ontario and neighbouring provinces, highlighting diverse traditions from around the world; (2) Cultural food and artisan marketplace: a vibrant festival marketplace featuring 15 to 20 international food vendors and food trucks, along with local craft vendors and artisans offering handmade goods and cultural products; (3) Cultural booths: between 5 and 10 cultural information booths hosted by community and immigration organizations that promote cultural heritage, provide educational resources, and support newcomer connections within the Ottawa Valley; (4) Family activities: family-friendly programming including face painting, balloon artists, inflatable attractions, henna artists, and interactive displays such as local fire department demonstrations; and (5) Opening ceremonies and cultural recognition: daily opening ceremonies led by local dignitaries and Indigenous representatives featuring a land acknowledgement, traditional songs, and community remarks before the day’s cultural performances begin.