The National Multicultural Festival Opening Ceremony brings together performance, poetry and community reflection to celebrate the strength and diversity of Canberra’s multicultural community. Audiences are invited to take part in the Multicultural Ribbon Tree, adding messages of hope, unity and cultural pride to create a living artwork. The ceremony also features an address from the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, reflecting on the importance of diversity, social cohesion and our shared future — setting the tone for a meaningful and uplifting festival weekend.