MONTREAL - What must surely be Quebec's most colourful and diverse neighbourhood threw itself a birthday party Sunday; Park Extension celebrated its centennial in a well-attended shindig Sunday.

The area's 30,000 residents live on a densely-packed space of less than two square kilometers that has all the hallmarks of an immigrant landing-pad: a culture of tolerance, hard work and low-wages.

Park Extension is home to many Canadian newcomers and is a spot where burqas, colourful saris, and other forms of exotic dress catch the eye.

"That's the beauty of Park Extension," says borough mayor Annie Samson. "The colour, the clothes, everybody dresses as they want and it's beautiful."

The area is bounded by Highway 40, Beaumont, Park and the unwelcoming TMR wall on Acadie and has a historical society which has documented the district's rich past. And it's enjoying a golden era, according to one resident.

"It's not dangerous anymore," said Shirley Laberge of the Park Extension Historical Society. "When people see people from other countries, they're afraid but once they get to know them, they find that they're very friendly."

The neighbourhood's many new immigrants – and there are about 70 ethnic communities represented in the area – are also happy to be there, according to a city councillor.

"Back in their home countries, there's infighting, civil wars and yet you see those same communities living side by side, being good neighbours and good friends, that's what Montreal and Park Ex is all about," said Mary Deros, longtime resident and city councillor for the area.

One contribution to the Sunday celebrations was a throwback collection of toys which residents grew up playing with. They included some unusual makeshift contraptions.

"Growing up you had nothing else to do, you didn't have computers, so you took old paint cans and you'd walk with them," said one man who spent his youth in the area.

Those who missed the celebrations can still learn more about the rich culture and history which has, and continues to be, its trademark.

Park Extension is also featured in a historical and photographic display at the town hall, which lasts until December 12. The show takes place at 405 Ogilvy Avenue, which also happens to be the former longtime home of CTV Montreal.