Canberra’s vibrant multicultural identity will be on full display this month: three major events — Windows to the World, Canberra Nara Candle Festival, and La Fiesta — invite the community to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that call the capital home.
Windows to the World (Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October, 10am to 4pm): Twenty embassies and high commissions, from Sweden to Sri Lanka and Mexico to Morocco, will open their gates to the public, so visitors can explore the architecture, gardens, and cultural traditions. Many of these events have already been booked out. A preview event will be held at Floriade on 11 October: 16 countries will showcase their culture through interactive exhibits, traditional clothing, food, and performances.
The Canberra Nara Candle Festival (Canberra Nara Peace Park, 25 October) celebrates Canberra’s enduring sister city relationship with Nara, Japan. Inspired by Nara’s Tokae Candle Festival, the event will feature more than 2,000 candles, a formal peace ceremony, and Japanese cultural experiences. Performers include genre-blending pop artist ミエミエ (emi emi), the ACT Senior Concert Band, and Byron Taiko’s dynamic drumming. There will also be martial arts demonstrations, calligraphy, origami, lantern-making workshops, and a Cosplay Competition hosted by expert Emerald King.
Also on 25 October, La Fiesta will transform Latin American Plaza in City West into a celebration of Latin American music, dance, art and food. The free, all-ages event features live bands, DJs, dance crews, workshops, and an open-air gallery of traditional and contemporary artworks.
“These celebrations highlight the deep value of cultural exchange and the shared spirit of peace and friendship that continues to unite our communities,” Michael Pettersson MLA, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, said.
“They are a reflection of the diversity that enriches our city and a testament to Canberra’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive capital.”
For full event details and programs, visit events.canberra.com.au.
Queanbeyan’s Diwali Mela Lantern Festival
In Queanbeyan, the Diwali Mela Lantern Festival will be held on Saturday 18 October from 5pm to 10pm at Queanbeyan Showground.
This free community event promises an evening filled with cultural celebrations, entertainment, and the enchanting beauty of lanterns and fireworks, organisers say.
“We are so excited to be hosting the Queanbeyan Diwali Mela Lantern Festival with our community,” Mayor Kenrick Winchester said.
“Last year was such an incredible event with so many people enjoying the atmosphere and celebrating together, I look forward to another great event this year.”
The festival will feature a Community Lantern Parade at 8:30pm; a best-dressed competition; a lantern-making workshop; cultural performances; a fireworks display from 9pm to 9.15pm; and free children’s activities (facepainting, jumping castles, QPRC Library story time). Stallholders will sell food, traditional clothing, and toys.
The event is sponsored by SBS.
For more information, including parking details and event updates, visit www.qprc.nsw.gov.au/diwali.
