GlobalFest 2025 presents a Malaysia-themed fireworks show and a number of cultural pavilions

By Hannah Caparino, August 28 2025—

Global Fest is making its return to Elliston Park with a Pan-Asian theme, celebrating various countries. The fireworks show on August 19 was themed behind Malaysia, with the music and firework colours being themed around the flag and more.

One aspect of Global Fest is the presentation of many countries and their culture. The cultural pavilions were set up across the fields and each had tables dressed with a variety of items, clothing, posters and more. The pavilions were led by the different cultural organizations and associations. Each of the organizations is run by volunteers who provide knowledge about the games, presentations and posters.

The Guinea pavilion was set up with pictures and captions, with the guide taking guests through the tent and explaining the photos and dresses that were presented. Led by members of the Guinean Association of Calgary, the photos would explore the makeup of the land, the languages spoken, the clothing and the cities. Some of the traditional clothing that were featured were the Lepi, which is made from Fulani fabric and is worn by the Furlani group. These are typically worn during events like weddings and more. The Foret Sacre which is a textile that was connected to Guinean history and figures.

The cultural pavilion that was run by Ukraine had multiple activities and products for sale, like face painting and shawls. Many items that were on sale included handmade jewellery cases, woven bags and candles, which are called “Pysanka.” The shawls that were sold had floral designs and the jewellery had the Ukrainian coat of arms, the Tryzub, which is shaped as a trident and means freedom. The blue and yellow colours were present as represented by its flag.

At the Thailand pavilion, there were snacks present that were sold for visitors to try. One of the snacks that sparked the most curiosity was the durian chips. The vendor explained the process of how the chips were made, with the chips being produced when the fruit is young and before it ripens. Durian has always been a divisive fruit due to the overbearing smell, but the vendor ensures that the chips retain the sweet taste of the fruit without the aroma. Some of the volunteers at the Thailand pavilion were dressed in traditional costumes that were worn during dances and inspired by statues or temples.

The night finished with a firework show that was designed by Jeffery Bin Bahary. The show was titled “Unity in Rhythm” and featured songs by Malaysian artists like Syarifah Aini and her song Kudaku Lari, and songs called Totol by Sudirman. The colours that were part of the show were inspired by the colours of Malaysia and emphasized the themes of unification.

Attendees were able to immerse themselves in multiple pavilions as well as try a number of foods. A passport challenge was also offered for people to explore each of the pavilions and talk to the many volunteers who were running the different tents. Information and tickets can be found on the GlobalFest website.