Multicultural Festival postponed again, with plans to return Sept. 11, 2027

LACONIA — The Laconia Multicultural & Folk Festival has been canceled for the second year in a row, “due to unanticipated circumstances.” The next festival is planned for Saturday, Sept. 11, 2027.

The festival is run by the nonprofit Laconia Multicultural Festival, Inc.

“The festival did not have an executive director in time to have a well-planned festival. So, we are rebooting this fall for next year,” said Leonard Campbell, president of the organization. 

The nonprofit’s previous director, Becky Guyer, stepped down from organizing the festival in 2024, after 15 years.

The Laconia Multicultural & Folk Festival posted to their website, “As we move forward, we extend a standing invitation to anyone in our community who would like to join us in the planning and/or preparation for this exciting event. We are looking for persons to coordinate various aspects of the event including marketing, facilitating vendors and entertainers, obtaining sponsorships, coordinating the event day, etc.”

The City of Laconia’s Human Relations Committee also participates in the Multicultural Festival. Councilor Mike Conant (Ward 6) said they are currently working on filling seats on the committee, following appointment debacles. The Human Relations Committee was previously a mayor’s committee, but was reformed as a council committee in December 2025.

“The planning for the September 2027 Festival starts now," the festival website reads. "This event holds wonderful energy and excitement as the community joins together to celebrate each other and the greater world. Together, let us circle the globe! Please join us on this amazing trek around the world!”