The 2026 Intercultural Arts Festival returns on Sept. 20, bringing community together to celebrate diversity through the arts

Music, dance, food, art and culture will take centre stage at Confederation Park when the Intercultural Arts Festival returns on Sunday, Sept. 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

The free, family-friendly festival celebrates the many cultures that make Kingston a vibrant and welcoming community. Residents and visitors are invited to experience a day of performances, cultural activities, food and community connections while exploring traditions and artistic expressions from around the world. 

“The arts have an ability to bring people together and spark a shared understanding across cultures,” said Megan Sirett, Manager of Events and Programs at the City of Kingston. “Through music, dance, visual arts and food, the Intercultural Arts Festival showcases the incredible cultural richness of our community while creating opportunities for residents and visitors to connect and celebrate together.” 

The day begins with a Citizenship Ceremony at Memorial Hall in City Hall, across from Confederation Park, where new Canadians will be welcomed as citizens. The ceremony sets the tone for a day dedicated to celebrating diversity, inclusion and belonging. 

Festival programming includes: 

• Live music and dance performances throughout the day.
• Cultural booths showcasing traditions, arts and heritage from diverse communities.
• Vendors featuring crafts and handmade goods.
• International cuisine from a variety of cultures.
• A temporary installation of ‘IN BETWiN: Stories of Kingston’s Immigrants’ by Sergio Jaua in Memorial Hall. The exhibition is a series of portraits that celebrates the diverse voices and stories of immigrants living in the city.
• Booths featuring local services and organizations providing resources and information for newcomers to Kingston. 

Learn more and stay tuned for updates to the event schedule on the City’s Intercultural Arts Festival page.