For IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 9th, 2025
International Culturefest in the Valley Unveils Inspiring Pilot Program at 2025 Festival
Quispamsis, NB — The Saint John Newcomers Centre is excited to announce the return of the International Culturefest in the Valley, set for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Quispamsis Arts & Culture Park.
This year marks the launch of an innovative pilot program: The Artistic Corner. Placing artistic crafts and creative expression at the heart of the festival, Artistic Corner will highlight traditions and skills from cultures around the globe. Festival-goers are invited to explore and participate in:
✨ Innovative hair artistry
🖋️ Elegant calligraphy in multiple languages
📄 Intricate origami craft creations
🔴 Indigenous beadmaking
🎨 Diverse hands-on displays and interactive demonstrations
As a pilot initiative, the Artistic Corner weaves together the distinct creative voices of professionals, volunteers, and the wider community, showing how artistic diversity binds us as a unified region. Visitors are encouraged not only to observe but also to share their own talents—making Culturefest a truly immersive experience.
Adding to the festivities, our annual community Green BBQ (sponsored by the Real Atlantic Superstore – Rothesay Avenue Branch) will be featured, promoting sustainability, community connection, and the flavours of cultures near and far.
“The Artistic Corner is a meaningful new step in our mission to offer an interactive, engaging, and welcoming festival. This program will spark creativity and pride in our diverse community,” said Mohamed Bagha, Managing Director of the Saint John Newcomers Centre. “We’re grateful for the resourcefulness and support of the Mayor and Administration of Quispamsis in making this vision possible. We invite everyone to join us, participate, and celebrate the power of creative diversity together.”
“We are honoured to host Culturefest in Quispamsis,” said Quispamsis Deputy Mayor Mary Schryer. “As we continue to grow, we are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming community. We are looking forward to experiencing this showcase of our friends and neighbours in the Kennebecasis Valley.”
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Quispamsis Arts & Culture Park
About International Culturefest in the Valley:
Now in its latest edition, Culturefest is a vibrant celebration of art, food, and community, showcasing the richness that diversity brings to the Valley. The festival aims to foster inclusion, unity, and hands-on cultural discovery for all ages.
For more information, please contact:
Lorne Daltrop
Festival Co-Director
Saint John Newcomers Centre
lorne.d@sjnewcomers.ca
(506)645-9663
Mohamed Bagha
Managing Director
Saint John Newcomers Centre
Mohamed.bagha@sjnewcomers.ca
(506)639-0690
Leon Cheng
Festival Co-Director
Saint John Newcomers Centre
culturalfestival@sjnewcomers.ca
(506)651-5273
Sochi Azuh
Communications Specialist
Saint John Newcomers Centre
Sochi.azuh@sjnewcomers.ca
(506)271-4462
