In many cultures, spring signals a restart in hopes of another prosperous, forgiving and joyous year.
Celebrations and festivals to mark the occasion have either happened already or are in the works for the Tri-Cities.
One local community group is hoping to expand on that concept by inviting residents to celebrate diversity in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody, and offering something for everyone.
Tri-Cities United is set to host a free multicultural spring event next month and organizer Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre believes it's important to expand horizons in developing an appreciation for the greater community.
"When you attend cultural events of other people, you get to learn a lot about their history and way of life," she tells the Tri-City News.
"It will give you a better understanding of their present norms, cultures, and traditions. You will be in a better position to tolerate other people's cultures even if you might not like or understand them.
Last Tuesday (March 14), hundreds from Metro Vancouver's Persian community gathered in Coquitlam's Town Centre Park for an annual fire festival as part of the lead-up to Nowruz.
The spring equinox was observed on Monday afternoon (March 20), and Easter Sunday is set for April 9.
No society can exist without a culture, Kyle-Lefebvre added, noting the multicultural spring is an opportunity to be educated and work together.
"Through cultural events, therefore, people get to understand the various cultural identities that make up the people of a country and that way, foster the idea of nationhood."
The gathering is also a continuation of Tri-Cities United's mantra of connecting community, boosting mental health and helping people feel less isolated.
In 2020, the group's virtual initiatives acted as fundraisers to help feed local struggling families, thanks to multiple food drives and a partnership with the United Way of the Lower Mainland's food hub.
How it works
The Tri-Cities United multicultural spring event is set to include games, activities and an appearance from a "special guest," according to the event's description.
This includes an Easter egg hunt, multicultural crafts tables, a potluck- and picnic-style lunch, as well as door prizes for kids and adults in attendance.
The location will be a surprise for those that sign up, Kyle-Lefebvre explained, but will take place rain or shine at a park in south Coquitlam on April 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
As the event is free, she added space will be limited to 30 families so that everyone gets a chance to participate.
For more information on Tri-Cities United's multicultural spring event, you're encouraged to join the group's Facebook page.
Tri-Cities United was co-founded by Kyle-Lefebvre (ParentTalk Podcast), Shawna Comey (Parent/Child Events and Adventures of Tri-Cities BC), Renata Steele (RE/MAX City Realty) and Vishad Deeplaul.
