CFAC’s mandate is to: Support the creation and presentation of folk and traditional arts Increase equitable access to artistic opportunities for under-represented communities Provide professional development and capacity-building opportunities for artists Foster inclusive public participation through community-based programming Build sustainable partnerships that strengthen Toronto’s arts ecology
Equity and inclusion Community-driven artistic practice Cultural diversity and respect Transparency and accountability Collaboration and knowledge sharing
CFAC programs prioritize public access, artistic excellence, and community engagement. Programming includes public performances, workshops, and learning opportunities that reflect diverse folk traditions and contemporary community-based practices. Programs are designed to be accessible to diverse audiences, including emerging artists, newcomers, and under-represented communities.
CFAC programs prioritize public access, artistic merit, and community engagement. Programming includes public performances, workshops, and learning opportunities that reflect diverse folk traditions and contemporary community-based practices. Programs are designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants, including emerging artists, newcomers, and under-represented communities. Through our programming, CFAC supports both artistic excellence and meaningful cultural exchange.
The Community Folk Art Council of Toronto (CFAC) was founded in 1964, at a time when Toronto was rapidly becoming one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Recognizing the importance of preserving traditional arts brought to Canada by immigrant and diaspora communities, CFAC was created as a community-based umbrella organization to support, present, and safeguard living cultural traditions—including folk music, dance, costume, storytelling, and ritual.
From its earliest years, CFAC focused on intangible cultural heritage—traditions passed from generation to generation rather than housed in museums. The organization provided a platform where cultural groups could perform, teach, and share their heritage publicly, while also gaining access to resources, mentorship, and performance opportunities. One of its signature contributions has been the Toronto Multicultural Canada Day Festival, which has become a long-standing celebration of cultural expression and community pride.
Over more than five decades, CFAC has played a vital role in building bridges between communities, fostering intercultural understanding, and advocating for the recognition of folk and traditional arts within Canada’s cultural landscape. The organization has also maintained strong international connections, including partnerships with global folklore networks such as CIOFF, positioning Toronto’s cultural communities within a broader worldwide context.
Today, CFAC continues its founding mission: to preserve the past, celebrate the present, and ensure the future of Toronto’s diverse cultural heritage through community, education, and performance.
The Community Folk Art Council of Toronto (CFAC) is a community-based, artist-led organization dedicated to supporting, presenting, and advocating for folk and traditional arts across Toronto. CFAC advances equitable access to the arts by providing public programming, professional development, and capacity-building opportunities for artists whose practices are rooted in cultural heritage, lived experience, and community storytelling. Through partnerships, inclusive programming, and artist support initiatives, CFAC fosters meaningful community engagement while strengthening Toronto’s cultural ecosystem.
After several years of dedicated service to Community Folk Art Council of Toronto, Dr. Mary Jane Warner, former Board Chair and subsequently, Board Advisor, is stepping down from the CFAC Board. We are truly grateful for her leadership and guidance, as well as steering Community Folk Art Council of Toronto through the pandemic's transitions. We wish her well in her journey ahead. We also bid farewell to our Treasurer, Peter Bennett, who has been an incredible presence at Community Folk Art Council for the past five years, and has extended his support in so many capacities at CFAC! We are grateful to both Dr. Mary Jane Warner and Peter Bennett for their service and commitment to Community Folk Art Council over the past several years.
Community Folk Art Council was represented at Hazelton Place Retirement Home by Tonatiuh Mexican Folklore, under the direction of Luz Adriana Castillo for Mexican Independence Day Celebrations on September 16. Tonatiuh Ensemble performed a vibrant array of traditional dances from Mexico.
Several of our members will know Odette Aguinaldo, a lifelong member and beloved presence at Community Folk Art Council of Toronto, and the Director of Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe of Toronto as well as former CFAC Board Member. Some of you may already know, Odette suffered a debilitating stroke on October 4th, 2025. She is currently in the hospital, beginning a long journey of recovery. Her medical team anticipate that Odette will need to remain hospitalized for up to six months in rehabilitation, working hard to regain her strength and independence. Donations can be made towards Odette’s recovery and support during this time at the Gofundme created by her family and loved ones. The GoFundMe page is linked here. Support Odette’s Road to Recovery
Ensemble Makedonka proudly brings back the International Winter FolkFest on Saturday, December 13, 2025! This vibrant event brings together global dance, music, and tradition for one unforgettable evening of celebration. Check out https://www.facebook.com/ensemblemakedonka for more details and updates on the incredible multicultural lineup of talent from diverse world cultures! Tickets available at : www.ensemblemakedonka.com
CFAC is seeking new members for its Board of Directors for a three-year term starting February 1, 2026. Board members attend monthly meetings (mostly via Zoom) and take part in organizational decisions. No previous board experience required.
There are three positions available. Applicants must be 18+, and CFAC encourages nominations from Equity Priority Groups, including Indigenous peoples, persons of colour, 2SLGBTQIAP individuals, persons with disabilities, and persons living with mental illness. Skills in fundraising, accounting, marketing, or media are an asset.
To nominate yourself or someone else, email communityfolkartcouncil@gmail.com with the subject “CFAC Board Election Nomination.” A short form will be provided.
