Pakistan Festival 2017 in Vancouver Downtow

On August 13, thousand people came together to celebrate 70th Pakistan’s independence at British Columbia’s Sixth Pakistan Festival. The overwhelming successful event was held at Jack Poole Plaza in downtown Vancouver. The huge turnout of the Pakistani community and others at Canada Place and fluttering of Pakistan’s flag side by side with that of Canada with serene Burrard Inlet and gorgeous North Shore Mountains in the background, was a proud moment and a thrilling experience. The exotic location has immensely added to the exquisiteness of the event. The event provided a window into Pakistan’s arts and crafts, cuisine, fashion and music. Since the first Pakistani Festival, the tradition was continued this year by individuals representing Pakistan-Canada Association, Pakistani Youth Council and Pakistani Canadian Women’s Society, along with Pakistani businesses and the Pakistani community at large with the great contribution and supervision of Consulate General of Pakistan in Vancouver. Gold , Silver , Bronze and Media sponsors played their role well in success of the festival. Once again, the goal was to strengthen the community and to share their unique culture and heritage with their fellow Canadians. Members of local business community, both Pakistani and non-Pakistani, extended their helping hands by giving money and time to the festival. The presence of vendors from other communities and federal political parties at this year’s festival was also a good sign, showing the increased popularity of the event across communities. Planning for this event began many months prior to the event. Allhumdullillah the motivation and enthusiasm of all hard working volunteers and management committee paid off. The event was conducted beautifully by Ms. Ayesha Qureshi along with the local talents. The official celebration started with a colourful Parade and a procession of special guests and dignitaries led by young kids dressed in cultural dresses holding Pakistani flags and women carrying a big Pakistani Flag throughout the plaza and to the stage. The program started with Talawat e Quran, and then a welcome address given by the organizing committee, including Dr. Mohammad Tariq. Many speeches were delivered from honourable dignitaries, including Senator Salma Ataullahjan, Federal and Provincial Ministers, councillors, and representative from CIBC, Next segment was a collection of beautiful and colourful presentations by children on national songs presenting Provincial dresses and dances. This was followed by a fascinating cultural fashion show. On the musical entertainment side, Ms. Wania Jibran from Alberta, and Mr Nauman Khalid riled up the crowd with Pakistani pop and classical songs. At the plaza many tents surrounded the field along with a massive stage and sound system set up for the variety of entertainment. Food vendors from the community brought the event to life with the aroma and flavour of traditional Pakistani cuisine. A Special thanks goes to the City of Vancouver, sponsors and dedicated team of volunteers. Overall it was a wonderful Festival in Vancouver history This festival has been a major step for the Pakistani community under the leadership of entire Pakistani Consulate General Team, who continues to make bridges between local Pakistani Associations and many other individuals.