Calgarians from every corner of the city gathered to enjoy the 32nd Lilac Festival on Sunday, June 4, on 4th Street S.W. between 12th Ave. and Elbow Dr. S.W.
There were thousands of people who attended the festival despite the hot weather. Many took in the Lilac Festival for the first time, while others enjoy the festival every year.
Vendors at the festival sold necklaces, home decor, clothing, and beauty products. Many vendors featured different foods, including Chinese, Italian, BBQ, and Indian food.
“Dumpling Hero is my favourite food at this festival. Dumplings with sweet & sour pork, I like the most,” said Salor, an attendee at the Lilac festival.
There were also around 100 performances, including singing, dancing, bands, musicals, and many others. Dance performances like Samba Soul, Iskcon, Kor Dance Works, and Jumping Camel Belly Dance attracted attendees. The performances made the festival more joyful and memorable.
One of the highlights of the Lilac Festival was the parade, which presented the diversity of the Calgary community. The parade featured a wide range of floats, musical bands, and community groups, all celebrating the arrival of spring.
The Lilac Festival is also a great opportunity for shops and vendors to promote their businesses. Over 500 vendors participated in this festival.
“My favourite part of this festival is meeting new people, talking to them, and buying their products,” said Dennis Miller, a local vendor.
Festival favourites, such as Calgary Mini Donuts, Family Squeezed, Mumbai Bites, Dumpling Hero, and Tikka-N-Tequila, play an important role in the festival.
“The Lilac Festival is a great way for all types of businesses, small and large to come together and you can unite in one event everyone comes out all over the city and it’s really a great event to connect with businesses and others, ” said Heyley Banyard, a local vendor at Without Co.
Overall, the 32nd Lilac Festival saw 100,000 people gathered.
