Folkfest bringing cultural celebration back to Saskatoon

Saskatoon is gearing up to celebrate cultural diversity as the 38th annual Folkfest kicks off Thursday evening.

Unlike previous years when pavilions were spread throughout the city, 17 of the 21 stations will be hosted at Prairieland Park this time around.

“This is the first time many get to see what the others are doing,” said Folkfest Executive Director Terri Rau.

The majority of the pavilions will be outdoors, while another five will be hosted inside.

The German, Indian, Irish and Norwegian events will still be held offsite.

Parking for the event will be free at Prairieland Park, with room for 3,000 vehicles. Rau said attendees will have to enter through the Ruth Street and Herman Avenue entrance, while vehicles will be directed to the Sports on Tap exit in order to leave.

People leaving will also be forced to turn right out of the parking lot, heading down Lorne Avenue towards Circle Drive.

Saskatoon Transit is offering free service to and from all pavilion bus stop locations for those who purchase Folkfest passports.

The passports are available at Macs, Safeway and at the door for $16.

Folkfest begins at 5 p.m. Thursday and concludes Saturday night.

—With files from 650 CKOM’s JT Marshall.