Edmonton - The Heritage Festival returned for the first time since 2019 to complete the long weekend in August in Edmonton.

This three-day outdoor event celebrates cultures from around the world who consider the city their home.

Jim Gibbon, the festival's executive director, said this is one of the most important events in Canada, where many cultures come together and celebrate in peace and harmony.

The festival achieved the targeted attendance level, which is half the usual participation rate for the year, according to Gibbon.

Filipino Toni Sertida told CTV News Edmonton that "it's always good when your food runs out." "That means people are buying your goods."

Polish dancer Francis Bopierski added: "It is a real honor to be able to show that we are from a different country and that we share their heritage and culture."

"We bring our heritage and culture to Canada and help make it more unique - more diverse and truly add something important that makes Canada a very great country."

Prime Minister Jason Kenney was present on holiday yesterday, Monday, where he enjoyed some dishes prepared by the countries represented at the festival and cultural performances.

He expressed his pride, saying: "Canada is unique. Alberta is unique with our model of pluralism. This is what Heritage Fest is about."

In conclusion, "Alberta is ready for summer to come. We will come back together as a community."