We're inviting community members to come together for our first-ever Our Multicultural Festival on Saturday 16 March 2024.
Held in the lead up to this year's Harmony Week and Cultural Diversity Week (18-24 March), this colourful family-friendly event will celebrate the different cultures and community that are represented on our Peninsula.
Featuring delicious food and drink (and free gelato!), captivating musical and dance performances, beautiful art and crafts, workshops and more, Our Multicultural Festival is open to residents and visitors of all ages, backgrounds and faiths.
Who knows, you may discover your new favourite sweet treat, make connections with other like-minded community members or experience a powerful story told through dance.
As one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world, it's important that we take the time to celebrate our multiculturalism and shared stories.
Join us to celebrate diversity, inclusion and respect for everyone who calls the Mornington Peninsula home – from the traditional owners of this land to those who have come from overseas, generations ago or in more recent times, and put down roots on the Peninsula.
Our Multicultural Festival
Saturday 16 March 2024, 11am – 3pm
Mornington Park Pavilion (9 Flinders Drive, Mornington)
Cost: Free
mornpen.vic.gov.au/multiculturalfest
You can also check out events happening throughout the Peninsula for Harmony Week and Cultural Diversity Week by visiting our What's On page: mornpen.vic.gov.au/whats-on
What is Harmony Week?
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It's about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.
To find out how you can get involved in this year's Harmony Week activities, visit harmony.gov.au
Don't forget you can wear orange to show your support and share your Harmony Week celebrations and photos on social media using #harmonyweek and #everyonebelongs.
What is Cultural Diversity Week?
Multiculturalism is a core part of the Victorian identity, our character and way of life. Our state is home to people who speak 290 languages and have 314 different ancestries. It's also a place where anyone can contribute and belong.
Cultural Diversity Week is a time to come together to recognise the benefits of cultural diversity and to showcase the many cultures that have shaped our multiculturalism.
This year's theme is "Our Shared Stories - Celebrating Together." Whether it's a cherished childhood memory or a journey across continents, each story holds the potential to bring connection and understanding.
To learn more about how you can get involved in this year's Cultural Diversity Week celebrations, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/culturaldiversityweek
Remember to share your Cultural Diversity Week celebrations and pictures on social media using #CulturalDiversityWeek #OurSharedStories and #Celebratingtogether
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Simon Brooks:
"Our Multicultural Festival is to remind the community why our cultural diversity is one of Victoria's greatest assets and we are stronger because of it.
"We want everyone, no matter who they are or where they're from, to come along and have fun and appreciate that our differences make our community a great place to live."
