About Canadiana Fest! - Canadiana Fest

Bozhoo! Bonjour! Hello! Canadiana Fest is a grassroots cultural organization founded by Channon Mondoux and powered by a volunteer team in partnership with Premier Athletics for Youth Development. Now in its fourth year, we present year‑round programming that culminates in the Can‑Am Peace Jam — a family‑friendly celebration of culture, kindness, and community at Arcadia Creek Festival Place in downtown Kalamazoo (Saturday, September 19, 2026).

Our Mission:

To celebrate Canada’s diverse heritage, foster cultural exchange, and strengthen community bonds through inclusive programming, music, food, sports, and storytelling — all while giving back to local causes.

Born after the pandemic from one simple idea — “If the girl can’t get to Canada, bring Canada to the girl!” — the Fest spotlights Indigenous, French, and Commonwealth traditions while welcoming people of all backgrounds.

What we do:

Showcase Indigenous, French, and Canadian arts, language, music, sport, and traditions
Host family‑friendly programming, games, and performances
Partner with food banks and local charities
Create accessible, inclusive spaces with ASL interpretation, audio QR guides, and mobility accommodations
Build bridges and foster friendship and peace through shared celebration

Community Impact:

Nearly 200K meals contributed to food bank communities since 2023.
Over $33K donated to local food banks and charities.
NHL Street Hockey League launched for underserved youth through our partnerships.
$10K+ in subsidized booth fees for nonprofits and underrepresented business owners.
Accessibility: free and discounted tickets, mobility access, QR voice guides, and ASL‑interpreted stage programming.
Environmental stewardship supported in partnership with local Girl Scouts Troop 80172.

We are proud to be the largest Canadian cultural festival outside of Canada, with 2,500 attendees in 2025 and nearly 50% year‑over‑year growth since 2023.

Media reach and audience:

Our campaigns combine boosted social media, professional video, digital billboards, radio, and print. Recent metrics include strong regional reach and high engagement across platforms.

Audience snapshot:

Core age range: 35–65; strong growth among youth (ages 13–21 up 300%)
Diverse attendance: ~35% BIPOC; guests from 11 states and 2 provinces, plus international visitors
Digital momentum: followers up 90%, posts reaching 124K+

For a full list of media coverage and festival highlights, visit our media page on the website.

Events and ways to connect:

Canadiana Fest runs year‑round events and culminates in the Can‑Am Peace Jam each fall. Recent and upcoming highlights include community gatherings, comedy nights, and cultural showcases.

Get involved:

Volunteer: meaningful roles across programming and operations.
Sponsor: custom packages and high‑impact activations.
Attend: join us at upcoming events and the Can‑Am Peace Jam on September 19.

Contact Channon Mondoux, Director: Channon@CanadianaFest.FUN

For Volunteer Opportunities, reach out to Karen Burton at Volunteer@CanadianaFest.FUN

Our team and advisors:

A dedicated grassroots team of Canadians and Americans coordinates the Fest, supported by community advisors and local partners. Key volunteers and advisors include event leads, cultural coordinators, and community elders who ensure the festival is welcoming, respectful, and impactful.

We’re growing and excited to welcome you. Mark Saturday, September 19, 2026 on your calendar and follow our socials for announcements, artist lineups, and ways to participate.