Langley Arts Council wrapped up its inaugural month-long culture celebration on Saturday, March 29, with a performance by the Langley Ukulele Ensemble, and organizers are calling the celebrations a “huge success.”
More than 400 people attended the various events throughout the month, said Deepika Pandian, events coordinator with the LAC.
It was so successful, in fact, that LAC staff are already in the early stages of planning the Celebration of Culture for 2025.
“Cultural events provide a space for education, connection, and the celebration of the cultural differences in our community,” she commented.
Pandian said LAC has received funding from the BC Arts Council Project Assistance: Community Arts Festivals, and the BC, Fairs, Festivals, and Events Fund.
“This funding will help cover the expenses related to the Celebration of Culture events next year. We are very excited to make this event bigger and better in 2025,” she said.
LAC is already accepting applications for the 2025 celebration, and those interested can email Pandian at events@langleyarts.ca to apply.
Pandian added that the arts council is hoping the month-long culture celebration becomes a regular occuring event annually.
On Saturday, March 23, Grupo America performed a variety of Latin American traditional dances, such as flamenco and the Mexican hat dance called “El Jarabe Tapatio.”
“We’re hoping by the end of this hour, we’ll have taught you a little big of culture and a little bit about the background of each dance,” said emcee Erika Sanchez with Grupo America.
LAC currently has its youth exhibition on until April 24, with more than 190 artworks on display by young artists between the ages of seven and 30. A reception will be held on Saturday, April 13, from noon to 2 p.m.
Starting April 10, the LAC is hosting the Port Kells Art Club exhibit and the Federation of Canadian Artists exhibit – both until May 22.
Port Kells Art Club exhibit is on display at the Township of Langley Civic Centre at 20338 65th Ave. during facility operating hours.
The Federation of Canadian Artists exhibit is displayed at Langley City’s Timms Community Centre in the Walkway Gallery at 20399 Douglas Cres. during operating hours.
LAC is also accepting applications for summer, fall, and winter events including its second iteration of Outdoor Fine Arts Fair, BC-Wide Portrait Competition, Exhibition and Live Painting, and more.
Learn more at langleyarts.ca.
READ ALSO: A candlelight ceremony at Aldergrove Legion to remember the fallen
IN OTHER NEWS: Fort Langley town hall meeting focuses on public safety