A trip around the globe without leaving Saskatoon: Folkfest returns in person

The atmosphere is back.

After the pandemic forced Saskatoon’s Folkfest online for the past two years, the multicultural event is back in person for 2022.

Eleven pavilions — Ukrainian Karpaty, Japan, Philippines, Pakistan, Nepal, Ireland, Indian and Métis, India, Bangladesh and Cameroon — will have cultural displays, activities, entertainment and delicious cuisine over three days. The festival kicks off Thursday and runs until Saturday.

While Germany, Scotland, Norway, Mexico and Asia Pacific do not have their own pavilions, each group will be represented with daily performances at the International Place pavilion at Merlis Belsher Place, which is one of six locations for this year’s Folkfest.

Another change this year is the end to the iconic paper passport. The electronic passports available this year cost $15, and will allow for unlimited admissions and transportation on the Folkfest buses to and from the pavilions. Children 12 and under can attend for free.