Richmond, BC – Off the-chart sounds from around the world will power the inaugural Richmond World Festival at Minoru Park this Labour Day long weekend. Located in the heart of Richmond’s city centre, this free, day-long celebration of music, food and culture takes place Saturday, September 5 and is presented by Coast Capital Savings.
An eclectic line-up of performers will entertain festival-goers with both contemporary and traditional music and dance at the YVR Main Stage.
Joining the headliners, Matt and Kim, a dynamic indie duo from Brooklyn, is Grammy/Juno award-winner, Alex Cuba. His smoky vocals and masterful guitar-work crosses genres and cultures, always captivating listeners. Born and raised in Cuba, and now living in Canada, Alex has launched a successful career performing his own original works as well as song writing with major label artists such as Sheryl Crow, Nelly Furtado and Jason Mraz. Cuba’s latest album, Healer, launched in March of this year.
“We’re excited to be the presenting sponsor for the Richmond World Festival,” says Maureen Young, Acting Director, Community Leadership, Coast Capital Savings. “The announcement of the addition of Alex Cuba to the lineup really establishes this event as a world-class festival and continues to build the Richmond World Festival into an event that will draw a wide range of people of all ages, while fostering a sense of belonging for families and youth.”
Other confirmed festival acts performing on the YVR Mosaic Main Stage include Bhangra chart toppers, En Karma; Kata Kata Afrobeat Group; Songpati Latin Band; Purple Rain; and Roku Sichi Taiko drummers.
The Global Village Stage and the Coast Capital Savings PopUp Zone will feature numerous acts throughout the day including Slavic soul band, Silver; traditional Russian ensemble, RCC Russian Balalaika Orchestra; singer/actor/musician/circus performer, Neezar; the First Nations dance troupe, Wild Moccasins; Vancouver Cantonese Opera; and Vancouver yo-yo prodigy, Harrison Lee.
Also watch for the Your Kontinent Digital Carnival, which will light up the night with an exciting multimedia light and music show that incorporates art, nature and technology.
The Richmond World Festival runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Accompanying the live music is the Festival of Flavours featuring 35 international food trucks, and the Richmond Centre Culinary Stage, featuring notable local chefs including Master Chef Canada contestant, Tammy Wood.
Other festival attractions include the Global Village, with interactive cultural activities and performances; Wide World of Sports, showcasing culturally unique sports from across the globe; Kids World, with fun and educational activities for children; World of Poetry; Artisan Marketplace and more.
The Richmond World Festival is produced by the City of Richmond. Community partners are Port Metro Vancouver, Cowell Auto Group, Richmond Centre and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Media sponsors are Global TV, the Georgia Straight, 102.7 The Peak, Z95.3, Richmond News and Miss 604.
For more festival news visit www.richmondworldfestival.ca and for updates, contests and more fun follow facebook. com/richmondworldfest, @FunRichmond on Twitter. #RmdWF.