Multiculturalism

Alberta is a place of diverse peoples who make up an important part of our healthy and balanced society. The province enjoys a rich culture and heritage shaped by people from all over the world. Throughout Alberta you’ll find arts, cuisine, music and festivals celebrating different ethnicities.

Early settlers to Alberta came mainly from the United States, British Isles, Scandinavia, and Europe. In recent years, many people have immigrated from China, India, South Asia, the Mediterranean and Middle East, and parts of Africa, Central and South America.

Edmonton and Calgary both have historic Chinatowns and Alberta is home to the largest francophone population west of Ontario. These immigrant populations have integrated with Alberta’s First Nations population.

We are committed to creating a society where you feel welcome and can participate in all aspects of life while maintaining your traditions. Alberta’s culture includes not only the arts, but also our heritage, diversity, recreation and the natural environment.

Alberta provides many programs to help you settle into a new way of life. Our many cultural and ethnic groups offer great ways to get involved with your new community by spending time with people who share similar backgrounds and interests.

Multicultural festivals

The province honours multiculturalism by celebrating the first Monday in August as Heritage Day, while Alberta communities honour cultural diversity by hosting more than 7,000 festivals and celebrations each year. These gatherings provide opportunities for people from different ethnic groups to experience the food, music and traditions of other cultures.

Date Updated: Oct 25, 2010
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