The Port Alberni Folkfest Multicultural Society is calling for community volunteers to help organize this year’s Canada Day celebration on July 1, 2026. The volunteer-run, non-profit organization is looking for people to assist with set-up and take-down, monitoring street corners, supporting vendors, and managing the parade.
The society has long been responsible for the local Canada Day festivities, which are free for residents to attend. Funding for the event is supported by vendor fees, along with major contributions from the Department of Canadian Heritage, the City of Port Alberni, and various local social clubs and businesses.
The organization is seeking new support to ensure the celebration continues, as it relies entirely on community volunteers. This call for help comes after the society faced significant challenges, including a period where it announced it would dissolve in February 2023 due to a lack of volunteer participation. Following that announcement, Mayor Sharie Minions directed city staff to coordinate alternative family events for the community.
The Canada Day traditions in Port Alberni were founded by the late Winston Joseph, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 89. Known to many as Mr. Positive Port Alberni, Joseph was a long-time community leader who helped build the multicultural celebrations that have become a staple of the city over the last four decades.
Those interested in getting involved can find more information about the volunteer opportunities through the Port Alberni Folkfest Multicultural Society listings.
