Celebration of African Australians: African Drumming
2026-02-08 13:45 - 14:30 (Australia/Sydney)
Feel the rhythm of Africa in this vibrant drumming workshop presented by Celebration of African Australians Inc. Participants will experience the power of traditional African drums and cultural instruments, accompanied by lively dance and music that bring the heartbeat of the continent to life. This interactive session is perfect for all ages and offers a unique opportunity to learn basic drumming techniques, explore cultural rhythms, and connect through music. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of African heritage, energy, and community spirit.

Mictlan's Journey, Paper Puppetry & Play
2026-02-08 14:00 - 14:20
Created from materials rescued from the recycling bin, Journey to Mictlan is a short shadow puppetry show that tells a Mexican legend dating back approximately 600 years – one that continues to live on in family traditions today. With puppets crafted from discarded items, shadows come to life under the magic of lamplight. The tale of Tonahi — a brave little soul on a mission to reach the land of the dead and earn his eternal rest. Stay on after the show to discover how discarded treasures can spark imagination and storytelling in your own hands!

Rio Samba
2026-02-08 14:00 - 14:30, 2026-02-08 15:00 - 15:30
Rio Samba Shows ignites the stage with the vibrant spirit of Latin America, blending dazzling dance performances with interactive workshops that get everyone moving. Inspired by Brazil’s iconic Carnival culture, this talented troupe has wowed audiences at major events including Sydney Mardi Gras, Enlighten, Floriade and NightFest. Their infectious energy and colourful costumes create an unforgettable celebration of rhythm and joy, loved by adults and children alike. Whether parading through the streets or teaching the sultry steps of samba, Rio Samba Shows knows how to get the party started and bring the heartbeat of Latin culture to Canberra.

Italian Flag Throwers
2026-02-08 14:00 - 14:30
Council of Italo Australian Organizations (CIAO) Italian Flag Throwers return to the National Multicultural Festival with a dazzling display that always stops crowds in their tracks. Their vibrant, traditional flag‑throwing performance transforms the fountain precinct into a burst of colour, rhythm and precision—far beyond what most people expect from Italian culture. Mixing choreography, heritage and a whole lot of flair, the troupe brings centuries‑old Italian pageantry to life in the heart of Canberra. Whether you’ve seen them before or are discovering them for the first time, expect a breathtaking spectacle that celebrates skill, spirit and the joy of cultural tradition.
PERFORMANCE TIMES
Friday 6 February
5:30pm – 6pm | 6:30pm – 7pm | 7:30pm – 8pm
Saturday 7 February
10:30am – 11am | 2pm – 2:30pm | 5:45pm – 6:30pm |7pm – 7:45pm
Sunday 8 February
10:30am – 11am |11:30am – 12pm |12:30pm – 1pm | 2pm – 2:30pm

Australian Tamil Cultural Society of the ACT
2026-02-08 14:00 - 14:30
Get ready for an explosion of rhythm and energy as the Australian Tamil Cultural Society brings Tamil dance to the stage! Three dynamic groups will deliver unforgettable performances that fuse modern beats with traditional cultural movements, creating a vibrant celebration of South Asian heritage. With music loved by all ages—from six to sixty—these routines unite generations and invite everyone to feel the joy of dance. Rich melodies, infectious rhythms, and soulful choreography will transport audiences to the heart of Tamil culture. This is more than a performance—it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the universal language of music.

Jerikye and the Crawdads
2026-02-08 14:00 - 14:30
Jerikye is an indigenous rocker that prowls the stage with mega bravado. Jerikye is a proud Wiradjuri man born with a guitar in his hands and with a love of 50s and 60s rock ‘n’ roll. At 23 he embodies the spirits of great artists with effortless musicianship and Charisma. Jerikye lights up the stage whether performing classics or his own original songs. The Crawdads are a group of talented musicians with many members of the band have been involved with the Canberra music scene since the 1980s. The members of the band are Kerry Lloyd – Guitar and Vocals, Rob Mac – Bass Guitar, Ralph Knees – Drums, Terry Boyton – Percussion.

Mexbourne Dance
2026-02-08 14:10 - 14:30
Experience the vibrant essence of Mexico with Mexbourne Dance Company’s dynamic showcase of traditional folk dances from Jalisco, Veracruz, Nayarit and Hidalgo. Each performance bursts with colour, rhythm and storytelling, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of these regions. From the lively footwork of Jalisco to the graceful movements of Veracruz, audiences are taken on a journey through Mexico’s heritage and traditions. Adorned in stunning costumes, the dancers embody the spirit of celebration and unity, creating an immersive experience that delights and educates. Join Mexbourne Dance Company as they bring the beauty and passion of Mexican folklore to life.

Cooking Demonstration: Kuzhi Paniyaram
2026-02-08 14:15 - 14:45
Kalpana and Abi invite you to discover Kuzhi Paniyaram, a beloved South Indian snack with a crispy shell and soft, fluffy centre. Cooked in a distinctive pan and served with coconut or tomato chutney, these bite-sized delights are made with rice or millet flour, fresh vegetables, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Kalpana, known for using produce from her own garden, will guide you through the recipe with warmth and clarity, while Abi brings vibrant energy to the stage. Expect cultural insights, nutritional tips, and a chance to taste the results—shared with up to 40 lucky participants.

Xtreme Stars
2026-02-08 14:15 - 14:45
Xtreme Stars burst onto the stage with pure joy, colour and unstoppable energy. This talented troupe of young adults with disabilities celebrates creativity, movement and self‑expression through a mix of dance styles and vibrant costumes. Their performances radiate confidence and community spirit, leaving audiences inspired by their talent and infectious enthusiasm. Having graced stages at the National Folk Festival, Floriade and countless community events, Xtreme Stars live by their powerful motto: embrace the ability, not the disability. Get ready for a heart‑warming, feel‑good performance that shines with pride and possibility.

Glow & Tell
2026-02-08 14:30 - 15:00, 2026-02-08 15:30 - 16:00
Placing children at the centre of this engaginginteractive experience,Glow & Tell blends the magic oflight and the simplicity of storytelling.Using UV light in a custom-built tent, the classroom istransformed into a magical performance space wherestories and imagined worlds come alive as glowingdrawings appear on the walls and floor.Following the performance, students are invited to createand illustrate their own stories in glowing UV light.EachGlow & Tellstory is created by one of our artists whoshare unique stories exploring themes of family and culture.

Kyokushin Karate Workshop
2026-02-08 14:30 - 15:10
Canberra Kyokushin Karate’s Performance Team brings the power of the “strongest karate style” to the festival with an action‑packed showcase for all ages. Black belts will demonstrate advanced kata, high‑intensity sparring and impressive board‑breaking skills, while students from ages five and up perform in colourful belt groups. Expect flying kicks, sharp technique and big moments — including Chief Instructor Jeffrey Boreham’s multi‑slab ice break live on stage. With children, teens and adults all stepping up to perform, this is a high‑energy display of discipline, confidence and Kyokushin spirit. Bring the family for an unforgettable martial arts experience!

Diverse Voices in STEM: Culture, Curiosity & Careers - Panel Discussion
2026-02-08 14:30 - 15:30
Hear from an inspiring panel of CALD women leaders working across health, earth science and technology as they share their journeys into STEM. This engaging discussion explores how culture, curiosity and lived experience shape careers — and why diversity is essential for the future of science, technology, engineering and maths. A thoughtful, empowering conversation for anyone curious about STEM pathways and representation.

Latin American Embassies Opening Ceremony
2026-02-08 14:45 - 15:00
The Latin American Embassies Opening Ceremony officially launches the Latin American Showcase at the National Multicultural Festival. Join representatives from Latin American embassies as they come together to celebrate shared culture, creativity and community. This short ceremonial moment marks the beginning of a vibrant program highlighting the richness and diversity of Latin America’s traditions through performance, music and connection.

Hit'n'Miss
2026-02-08 14:45 - 15:15
Hit ‘n’ Miss is Canberra’s only all-female drumming group, igniting stages with powerful beats and infectious energy since 2013. United by a passion for traditional West African rhythms, this dynamic ensemble blends cultural diversity with raw percussion power. Their performances celebrate rhythm, unity and the strength of the female spirit, drawing audiences into a mesmerising world of sound and movement. Beyond the music, Hit ‘n’ Miss champions gender equality and empowerment, inspiring women and girls to follow their passions fearlessly. Prepare to be moved by the pulse of the drums and the charisma of these remarkable performers.

Tim Scanlan Trio
2026-02-08 14:45 - 15:30
One man band Tim Scanlan teams up with fiddler Mana Okubo from Japans ‘John John Festival’ and Rhys Crimmin on the didgeridoo, mixing ancient tunes and drones with modern beats and sounds. Equally at home playing a midnight spot in a nightclub in Tokyo, and a Sunday arvo session at a small town cafe, the trio produce a sound going from acoustic sing along chant songs to huge kick drum, fiddle flying over bass drones dance tunes. They’ve played festivals around the world including Interceltique Festival in France, Vancouver Folk Festival in Canada, Mori, Michi, Ichiba Festival in Japan and the legendary Electric Picnic in Ireland. Songs for travelling, tunes for dancing, a festival goer most recently described the live gig as something like a psychedelic ceili.

Munay Folk
2026-02-08 15:00 - 15:15
Munay Folk brings the vibrant traditions of Peru to life with Valicha, one of the country’s most beloved dances. Originating from Cusco, this lively huayno celebrates love, youth and the rich cultural heritage of the Andes. Dancers wear stunning traditional attire—women in colourful skirts, jackets and sashes, men in authentic Andean clothing—creating a visual feast of movement and colour. Accompanied by rhythmic music, Valicha captures the spirit of Peru’s highlands, offering audiences an unforgettable experience of joy and cultural pride.

Bangladesh Australia Puja Association
2026-02-08 15:00 - 15:20
A unique variety of cultural performance with folk music, popular light songs, and songs based on classical Indian tradition. The dance consists of an Indian mythological episode.

Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance
2026-02-08 15:00 - 15:30
Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance, Canberra’s premier lion and dragon dance team, joins forces with Melbourne’s Soaring Dragon to deliver an unforgettable cultural spectacle. Across the festival weekend, audiences will experience authentic, high-energy performances featuring vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming and breathtaking choreography. From intimate stage shows to the grand parade, this collaboration promises the largest display of dragons and lions ever seen in Canberra—bringing good luck, joy and excitement to all. Rooted in centuries-old tradition, these performances celebrate Chinese heritage while creating magical moments for the whole community.

Australian Multicultural Action Network: Graceful Drapes - Arts of Saree Draping
2026-02-08 15:00 - 15:45
Discover the beauty and artistry of the saree in this hands‑on workshop led by Disti, a talented saree draper known for her friendly, practical teaching style. Joined by members of the Sri Lankan community, she’ll guide participants through classic draping methods, clever pleating tips and elegant pallu styles, while exploring regional variations across South Asia. Perfect for beginners and saree lovers alike, this relaxed session blends cultural insight with step‑by‑step technique, leaving attendees confident and inspired to wear a saree for festivals, weddings or any special occasion.

Cooking Demonstration: Myanmar on a Plate
2026-02-08 15:15 - 15:45
Heart Beams Rising invites you on a sensory journey through Myanmar’s rich culinary heritage. This live cooking demo showcases four beloved dishes: Laphet Thoke (tea leaf salad), street-style mini pancakes, Nga Pi Yay (fermented fish dip), and a hearty chicken and potato curry. Each dish is a window into tradition, flavour, and community. Led by members of the Myanmar diaspora, this not-for-profit group blends storytelling with hands-on technique, celebrating food as a bridge between cultures. Audiences will leave inspired, informed, and well-fed—ready to recreate these vibrant flavours at home.

Tarpuy Peru
2026-02-08 15:20 - 15:40
Tarpuy Perú brings the vibrant spirit of Peru to life with a performance full of colour, rhythm and joy! Tarpuy means “to sow” in Quechua, and this passionate group’s mission is to plant seeds of culture and connection wherever they perform. Their showcase is a lively journey through Peru’s diverse regions—from the powerful beats of the Andes to the playful dances of the coast and the tropical rhythms of the jungle. With dazzling costumes, infectious music and dynamic choreography, Tarpuy Perú transforms the stage into a fiesta. More than a show, it’s an invitation to celebrate Peru’s rich heritage!

Maan Mattiyan MuteyaranGiddha
2026-02-08 15:30 - 15:50
Giddha is one of Punjab’s most vibrant folk dances, performed by women to celebrate joy, community and tradition. Combining rhythmic clapping with lively steps and expressive gestures, Giddha is as energetic as Bhangra while showcasing feminine grace and elegance. Dancers wear colourful attire and perform to traditional folk songs that echo stories of village life and festivities. This performance by Maan Mattiyan Muteyaran brings the spirit of Punjab to the stage, offering audiences a glimpse into a dance form that has spread across India yet remains deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

Celebration of African Australians Sunday Gospel Showcase
2026-02-08 15:30 - 17:00
Feel the heartbeat of Africa with this joyful Sunday Gospel Showcase, blending powerful vocals, uplifting rhythms and vibrant movement. The Celebration of African Australians brings together traditional drumming, call‑and‑response singing and lively choreography to share stories of community, resilience and celebration. Colourful costumes and high‑energy performances create an atmosphere filled with spirit and connection, with audiences often invited to clap, sing and dance along. This is more than a show — it’s an immersive cultural experience that spreads joy, celebrates diversity and brings people together through the universal power of music.
PROGRAM
3:30PM – African Catholic Community Choir
3:45PM – Pentecost Choir
4:00PM African Gospel Band

Manquehue Chilean Folk Dance Group
2026-02-08 15:50 - 16:10
For over 20 years, Manquehue has proudly showcased the vibrant folkloric dances of Chile at festivals and community events across Australia. Their performances celebrate Chilean heritage through dynamic choreography and colourful costumes, bringing the spirit of central Chile to life. Audiences will enjoy traditional dances such as Cueca—the national dance of Chile—alongside Jota and Sajuriana, each reflecting stories of love, celebration and rural life. With passion and authenticity, Manquehue invites you to experience the rhythm, elegance and cultural pride that define Chilean folk traditions.

Choral Studio
2026-02-08 16:00 - 16:30
Choral Studio Harmony, founded in Melbourne in 2017, is a vibrant community choir of children from Russian-speaking families. Known for its versatility, the choir performs songs in English and Russian across a range of styles, bringing cultural richness and musical excellence to every stage. Harmony has earned international acclaim, winning silver at the 2024 World Choir Games in Auckland, gold at the 2025 World Exceptional Musicians competition in London, and multiple awards in Australia. Collaborating with groups like Glen Eira City Choir and Russian Folk Singing Group Zabava, Harmony delivers performances that inspire, connect, and celebrate diversity.

Troy Cassar-Daley
2026-02-08 16:00 - 17:00
A true giant of Australian music, Troy Cassar‑Daley brings his heartfelt stories and unmistakable voice to the festival as the 2026 headline act. A proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung man, Troy has spent more than three decades capturing the spirit of this country through his award‑winning songs. With 12 studio albums and countless accolades, he’s loved for his honesty, warmth and connection to community. Audiences can expect soulful favourites, rich storytelling and the unmistakable charm that has made Troy one of Australia’s most celebrated artists.

Fire Dragon Australia
2026-02-08 16:15 - 16:45
Fire Dragon Australia brings a breathtaking display of traditional Pai Lum (White Dragon) Kung Fu to the festival stage. Featuring performers from brand‑new beginners to Black Belts — and Grand Master Hardy himself, with more than 45 years’ experience and four Guinness World Records — this high‑energy showcase blends strength, skill and centuries‑old tradition. Audiences will witness powerful hand‑breaking demonstrations, traditional forms passed down through generations, dramatic weapon displays and spectacular flying kicks. The team also reveals the unique force of internal energy, or Chi, in a performance that highlights the harmony of mind and body at the heart of Chinese martial arts.

Cooking Demonstration: Thai Cuisine
2026-02-08 16:15 - 16:45
Spice up your festival weekend with Thai Media and Cultural of Canberra’s vibrant Thai cooking demonstration! This lively session brings traditional Thai flavours to life with quick, easy recipes anyone can master at home. Audiences will enjoy an interactive experience packed with storytelling, clever ingredient swaps, spice‑pairing tips and creative plating ideas. Each dish explores the culture behind the cuisine, making it as meaningful as it is delicious. And yes—there’s a tasting at the end! It’s the perfect blend of flavour, fun and foodie inspiration.
