It’s no surprise with a name like the Whistler Children’s Art Festival that the annual event is always chock full of culture. But diversity is the name of the festival’s game for 2009, with a range of workshops, entertainment and activities that highlight the variety of cultures that can be found across Canada.

Workshops this year include Acadian braided Brellion coasters, Maritime lighthouses, Japanese Gyotaku fish print T-shirts, origami and more. Kids can also learn the art and history of drumming, which is a form of expression in many cultures.

The mosaic mirror workshop helps demonstrate Canada’s cultural mosaic, while Whistler’s local culture is represented in the bear paw print T-shirts and sketching mountain wildlife workshops.

Ali Richmond, communications manager for the Whistler Arts Council, said cultural diversity is certainly a theme for the 2009 festival, which is coming up July 11 and 12 in Creekside. Many new workshops are being offered for kids of all ages, alongside several returning favourites, with the aim of helping participants learn more about Canadian cultures.

The entertainment roster is also a smorgasbord of ethnic talent, with Bollywood, bhangra, giddha and dandia raas dancing by the FootEdge Dancers, First Nations songs, stories and traditional knowledge from Art Napoleon, and the unique rhythms of the Cheondoong Korean Drummers.

“I think that will be an amazing show for the adults as well,” Richmond said of the drum performance.

The cultural infusion continues with free First Nations activities and crafts offered by staff from the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, and a new twist on face painting with henna tattoos.

The Children’s Art Festival has been a Whistler tradition for 26 years running, and year after year proves to be a draw for families and kids of all ages. This year, thanks to Whistler’s designation as a Cultural Capital of Canada, grant funding is contributing to an even bigger festival than ever.

“We were able to bring in some bigger performers,” Richmond said.

Beloved family performer Charlotte Diamond and the Hug Bug Band will be a highlight of the mainstage.

The list of popular and creative workshops goes on and on, and many include crafts for kids to bring home. While the workshops range in price from $4 to $8 per child, there’s also a bunch of free activities from which to choose.

Staff from the Whistler Museum will lead kids through the creation of stories and pictures that could wind up being chosen for a book that will be displayed when the museum reopens in time for the 2010 Olympics. The Ta Daa Lady is returning with her popular festival parade, and this year it’s free to participate.

Roving characters, magic shows, face painting, circus performers, balloon animals and more will contribute to two days full of action, fun and laughter.

Pre-registration for paid workshops starts Friday (July 3) and closes at 5 p.m. on July 8. Many workshops fill up quickly, so parents are encouraged to register in advance at www.whistlerartscouncil.com.

The 26th annual Whistler Children’s Art Festival runs July 11 and 12 in Creekside. Entry to the festival is $5 per child per day and by donation for adults. Visit www.whistlerartscouncil.com for workshop descriptions and more information.

Volunteers are also needed for the festival — email info@whistlerartscouncil.com or call (604) 935-8232 to get involved. A volunteer party on Sunday includes burgers, beer and prizes.