Celebrating Switzerland

Perley Health's Second Cultural Awareness Fair a Success

Perley Health hosted its second Cultural Awareness Fair on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The event was led by the Cultural Awareness & Inclusion Committee in partnership with the Food & Nutrition Team and offered an educational and engaging opportunity to learn more about the traditions and history of Switzerland.

Traditional Swiss music filled the Cafeteria, featuring the alphorn and the Schwyzerörgeli—a Swiss accordion—creating a fun and upbeat atmosphere enjoyed by employees and residents alike. A large display showcased fun facts, historical information, and photos highlighting Switzerland's beautiful geography. Participants also enjoyed a playful “snowball fight in the Alps,” and Swiss chocolate was shared with everyone to complete the experience.

The Food & Nutrition Team prepared an incredible Swiss-inspired meal, including hot chocolate and a hearty Suurchabis-Härdöpfustock Gratin—a traditional Swiss casserole made with mashed potatoes, cheese, and sauerkraut—served with sliced ham and roasted beets. The meal was finished with a warm slice of apple pie, making it the perfect comfort food for a cold and snowy January day. Thank you to the Food and Nutrition team for preparing such a delicious and hearty meal for all to enjoy!

The Cultural Awareness Fairs are more than just a theme event—they are an invitation to connect, reflect, and celebrate the diversity within Perley Health. The initiative aligns with our People First philosophy, encouraging staff and community members to learn about each other's backgrounds and traditions in a meaningful way. And this is just the beginning.

The Cultural Awareness & Inclusion Committee is committed to continuing this work throughout the year. With three more fairs planned annually, we'll have the opportunity to explore new cultures, new cuisines, and new connections, together.

Do you have an idea for a future Cultural Awareness Fair? A recipe, tradition, or cultural celebration you'd like to share? We want to hear from you! Share your by emailing caicommittee@perleyhealth.ca .

As seen in issue 17 of the Perley Post.

- Paula Norton, Manager, Human Resources

Paula Norton, Manager, Human Resources, showcasing a display for staff to discover and celebrate Switzerland as part of the second cultural awareness fair at Perley Health.