REGINA — Mosaic – A Festival of Culture is returning to Regina for its 55th anniversary.
The festival first started back in 1967 as a one-day event with several pavilions, including the Hungarians, Italians, and more.
"This has been the longest-running multicultural festival in Saskatchewan," said Terry Zwarych, chair of the Mosaic festival.
Now, nearly 60 years later, 15 pavilions will be a part of a three-day event for 2025, including the First Nations, Métis, China, Scotland, Poltava Ukraine, Kyiv, Philippines, Latin, Italy, Indian, Hispanic, Hellenic, Chinese, Balaton Hungarian, and Austrian.
All the pavilions are run by local communities/groups, dedicating potentially hundreds of volunteers to sell food, bring entertainment, and more. Zwarych estimates that at least 3,000-4,000 volunteers will participate in the upcoming event.
Zwarych said visitors are surprised by the different cultures Regina has. He believes that’s partially why the festival has run for over 50 years, withstanding challenges like COVID-19 and inflation.
Heading into this year, Zwarych said Mosaic has been working with the pavilions since Jan. on bringing a different type of experience.
"Every year, these groups try to make it a little bit better," he said.
One challenge the festival is facing is a scheduling conflict with the Sask. Roughriders' season opener. The Roughriders begin their season on June 5th, the same day the festival begins.
"We’re trying to make the best of the situation," said Zwarych.
In partnership with the Roughriders, anyone who purchases a ticket to the game can access any pavilion on June 5th.
Six of the pavilions will be located at the REAL District, a walking distance from Mosaic Stadium.
There will also be a bus to transport visitors to other pavilions across the city.
Visitors can also purchase a passport, giving them access to any pavilion over the three-day event.
The festival expects to draw 38,000 visitors, which would be an increase from nearly 30,000 in 2024.
As for tariffs impacting visitors, Zwarych said the festival doesn’t believe it will impact total visitors.
It’s estimated Mosaic draws nearly $4 million in GDP to Regina.
More details on the event can
Looking ahead to 2026, Zwarych hinted at new pavilions joining the event but wouldn’t reveal any further details as nothing has been finalized yet.
