Brantford International Villages Festival 2025: Everything You Need to Know

BRANTFORD, ON – The Brantford International Villages Festival is back and ready to bring the world to your doorstep! From July 2nd to 5th, 2025, this beloved celebration of culture, community, and cuisine returns for its 51st year, showcasing music, dance, and food from across the globe all right here in Brantford.

The International Villages Festival is a four-day passport-style event that invites attendees to explore 15 cultural “villages” hosted by local cultural associations, community halls, and clubs across Brantford. Each village offers a unique immersion into the traditions, food, music, and dance of a different country or region no plane ticket required.

For just $10, you get a passport that grants you unlimited access to all 15 villages over the course of the festival. Kids 13 and under get in free with an adult.

The first International Villages Festival began in 1974 as part of the City of Brantford’s Centennial celebrations. What started as a simple multicultural event has since grown into one of the region’s most beloved summer traditions, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors every year and supported by nearly 3,000 volunteers.

Below is a full alphabetical list of all 15 participating villages in 2025. Each includes a preview of what to expect, plus a direct link to their profile on the official festival website.

1. Chinese Village

Step into Chinese culture with traditional music, lion dancing, and dishes like dumplings, fried rice, and egg rolls. The Chinese Village is a colourful, high-energy stop known for its hospitality and authentic performances. Families are welcomed with a vibrant mix of folklore and modern flair.

Location: Dunsdon Legion, 9 Tollgate Road

2. East Coast Canada

Celebrate the East Coast with Celtic music, Newfoundland fare, and a warm community vibe. Expect hearty food like fish and chips, kitchen parties, and Maritime storytelling. It’s a relaxed and welcoming space perfect for music lovers and foodies alike.

Note: Friday – Saturday ONLY

Location: Brant Artillery Gunners Club, 115 Henry Street

3. Hungarian Village

The Hungarian Village delivers rich flavours like goulash and lángos, paired with spirited folk dancing and music. Guests can explore traditional costumes, desserts like dobos torte, and the warm hospitality of Brantford’s Hungarian community.

Location: Hungarian Hall, 104 Albion Street

4. India Village

From Bollywood hits to classical dance, India Village offers a vibrant cultural experience. Enjoy butter chicken, biryani, chai, and sweets, all served alongside performances that celebrate India’s regional diversity and colours.

Location: Brantford Convention Centre, 100 Market Street South

5. Italian Village

Celebrate la dolce vita with pasta, sausage, and desserts like cannoli and tiramisu. With accordion tunes and traditional dances, the Italian Village delivers a festive and heartwarming experience.

Location: Rossini Lodge, 140 Grey Street

6. Muslim Village

The Muslim Village welcomes guests with halal cuisine from across the Islamic world kebabs, samosas, and desserts like baklava. Cultural presentations, calligraphy, and music add to this rich and inclusive experience.

Location: Muslim Association of Brantford, 192 Greenwich Street

7. New York, New York

A high-energy tribute to the cultural melting pot of NYC. Expect iconic American eats, Broadway-themed fun, and tributes to jazz, soul, and hip-hop. It’s fast-paced, loud, and unforgettable just like the city itself.

Location: Bellview Community Hall, 55 Tom Street

8. Palestinian Village

Experience Palestinian heritage through folk dance, rich storytelling, and dishes like hummus, falafel, and maqluba. The village features cultural artifacts, traditional dress, and a focus on resilience and identity.

Note: Friday – Saturday ONLY

Location: Islamic Centre, 200 Greenwich Street

9. Philippine Village

The Philippine Village invites you in with warm smiles, karaoke, and dishes like adobo and lumpia. Enjoy traditional dances like Tinikling, and vibrant décor that brings island life to Brantford.

Location: Sydenham-Heritage United Church, 120 Sydenham Street

10. Polish Polonaise

Celebrate Polish pride through polka music, pierogies, and beer. With friendly volunteers, traditional dress, and hearty food, Polonaise offers an authentic slice of Poland in the heart of Brantford.

Location: Polish Hall, 154 Pearl Street

11. Polish Warszawa

A second Polish experience! Warszawa Village focuses on Warsaw’s cultural flair, offering elegant dances, rich stews, and traditional folk music in a celebratory atmosphere.

Note: Friday – Saturday ONLY

Location: Polish Community Centre, 126 Albion Street

12. Scottish Village

Bagpipes, Highland games, and shortbread await at the Scottish Village. Dressed in tartans and filled with toe-tapping music, it’s a festive stop for those wanting a taste of the Highlands.

Note: Friday – Saturday ONLY

Location: Brantford Air Force Club, 144 Grey Street

13. The Great Indian Village

Different from India Village, this location focuses on traditional Indian street food and classical music. With intricate dance performances and colourful backdrops, it delivers a sensory journey across India’s heartlands.

Location: Brant Curling Club, 34 Morrell Street

14. The Ukrainian Village

Taste borscht, pierogies, and cabbage rolls while enjoying live Ukrainian dancing every night. The Village displays the joy and warm hospitality Ukrainians are known for. Oh, and they’re famous for having the longest lineups of the Villages, so get there early!

Location: Harmony United Church, 268 Marlborough Street

15. United Africa Village

United Africa brings together traditions from across the continent with vibrant drumming, storytelling, and dishes like jollof rice, plantains, and stews. It’s a lively, educational, and joyous stop on your passport journey.

Location: Grace Anglican Church, 4 Pearl Street

In the past, Brantford offered shuttle buses for “village hopping,” which made getting from site to site easy. While that service is no longer running, here are some current alternatives:

• Brantford Transit: Several village locations are accessible via city bus routes. Check Brantford Transit’s site for schedules and stop locations.
• Ride Sharing: Taxis and services like Uber are available throughout Brantford.
• Carpooling: Locals are encouraged to travel in groups for a more eco-friendly and social experience.
• Parking: Most village locations have onsite or nearby parking. Arrive early to secure a spot.

If you’re planning to visit multiple villages in one night, we recommend grouping those located closer together and planning ahead using Google Maps.

What time are villages open?
Most villages open daily from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM, but check each village page for specific hours.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes! All ages are welcome, and many villages offer performances and activities suitable for children.

Do I need cash or card?
Some villages accept card, but cash is still recommended for food, drinks, and merchandise.

Are the villages accessible?
Most venues are wheelchair accessible. Check with individual villages if you require specific accommodations.

Whether you’re a local looking for a night out or a visitor searching for something uniquely Brantford, the International Villages Festival is a must-see summer event. With 15 cultural stops, amazing food, lively music, and a warm sense of community, it’s no wonder the Villages have become a treasured tradition for over 50 years.

Grab your passport, plan your route, and get ready to explore the world right here in Brantford.