About the National Multicultural Festival in Canberra
Welcome to the National Multicultural Festival, Australia’s largest celebration of cultural diversity. This annual highlight of Canberra’s event calendar offers an unforgettable experience where you can explore vibrant cuisines, captivating performances, and the rich heritage of multicultural communities. Join us in celebrating the beauty of unity through diversity.
Our Roots
Our journey began in the 1980s, when a passionate community set out to celebrate culture and diversity. Today, this 3-day extravaganza thrives, thanks to the unwavering support of Canberra’s multicultural communities, dedicated festival volunteers and the ACT Community Services Directorate.
Vision Statement
We strive to create a world-class National Multicultural Festival that enriches the lives of Canberrans and welcomes visitors to our vibrant city on traditional land, uniting the community in a shared celebration of culture.
Mission Statement
- We are committed to preserving and promoting multicultural traditions and celebrations, ensuring they remain relevant and a vital part of our society, embracing both traditional and emerging cultures.
- We provide a unique and safe place for diverse multicultural communities to proudly showcase, celebrate, and share their rich cultures and customs, in a non -political environment.
- Our immersive festival experience welcomes people from across Australia and the world to engage themselves in our community’s diverse customs and practices.
Festival Values
- Collaboration: We unite different communities and audiences to create an inclusive, welcoming, and harmonious festival experience.
- Diversity: We are passionate about showcasing the heritage, culture, and customs of diverse communities, keeping traditions – past, present and evolving – alive and vibrant.
- Spirit of celebration: We are here to create an event filled with passion, joy and pride, for community and everyone involved. The festival is a celebration of who we are as a community
- Inclusion and Respect: Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do, fostering respectful participation and understanding of our different cultures.
- Integrity: We are founded on the principles of best practice, valuing strong relationships, and maintaining open, transparent communication conducted with honesty, integrity and professionalism.
Community Panel Reference Group
At the heart of the National Multicultural Festival in Canberra is our Community Panel Reference Group (CPRG). This dedicated group plays a vital role in ensuring that our festival remains connected to its community roots.
The Importance of a Diverse CPRG
A diverse CPRG is essential for the success of the National Multicultural Festival. Members bring valuable insights into the needs of Canberra’s multicultural communities and actively engage with them to:
- seek broad input
- share festival priorities and activities
- encourage participation
Get Involved
Please note applications for new CPRG members are currently closed.