Calgary Eritrean Keskese Milash Community Association (CEKMCA) Annual Festival 2024
A joyful two-day celebration that united Eritrean families, elders, youth, volunteers and musicians to honor shared cultural roots, music, food and community spirit.
Event overview
The Calgary Eritrean Keskese Milash Community Association (CEKMCA) Annual Festival took place on September 21–22, 2024 at the Templegreen Community Association. The two-day celebration brought together Eritrean families, friends, and community members from across Calgary and nearby cities to honor their shared cultural roots and community spirit.
Host
Calgary Eritrean Keskese Milash Community Association (CEKMCA)
Venue
Templegreen Community Association, Calgary
Date
September 21–22, 2024
Highlights
Authentic Eritrean cuisine, live music, youth performances, elders honored, cultural activities
Quick highlights
Two-day cultural celebration engaging the Eritrean community from Calgary and nearby cities
Authentic cuisine prepared by volunteer cooks
Intergenerational engagement: elders honored; youth performed traditional dances and songs
Live traditional music and dancing
Fostered community ties and cultural education
Traditional dance performance
Local Eritrean musicians delivered powerful rhythms, traditional melodies, and soulful vocals. Music bridged generations, inspiring dancing, laughter, and heartfelt moments of connection throughout the festival.
Children & youth
Children and youth participated with enthusiasm — dressed in colorful traditional clothing, performing dances, singing songs, and engaging in cultural games. Their participation symbolized hope for the future and emphasized cultural preservation among younger community members.
Honoring elders & seniors
Elders and seniors were honored for their wisdom and their work preserving Eritrean values in the diaspora. They shared stories and cultural experiences that enriched the younger generation’s understanding of identity and continuity.
Leads & Volunteers
Local Eritrean musicians delivered powerful rhythms, traditional melodies, and soulful vocals. Music bridged generations, inspiring dancing, laughter, and heartfelt moments of connection throughout the festival.
Music & performances
Local Eritrean musicians delivered powerful rhythms, traditional melodies, and soulful vocals. Music bridged generations, inspiring dancing, laughter, and heartfelt moments of connection throughout the festival.
Friends Hub
These occasions are where friends meet and make deep relationships.
Honoring elders & seniors
Elders and seniors were honored for their wisdom and their work preserving Eritrean values in the diaspora. They shared stories and cultural experiences that enriched the younger generation’s understanding of identity and continuity.
Children in traditional dress
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Shared meal
Eating together from one plate represents far more than the act of sharing food it is a deep expression of unity, love, and shared humanity.
