What to Expect
Immerse your family in a lively celebration of diverse cultures at South Eveleigh. This unique festival combines three vibrant events—Lunar New Year, Mardi Gras, and Holi Hai—offering sensory-rich experiences that invite everyone to explore, participate, and celebrate together.
From traditional Lion Dances and Mahjong games to interactive drag performances and joyful powder play, there’s something to captivate every member of your family. Expect a welcoming atmosphere where culture is not only observed but truly lived and shared.
This free festival encourages community connection through engaging activities and performances, perfect for parents wanting to introduce their children to rich cultural traditions in a fun and interactive way.
Activity Details
The festival runs from Monday 16 February to Friday 6 March 2026, featuring three distinct programs:
- Lunar New Year (16–22 February): Enjoy BaZi Augmented Reality Mirrors, traditional Lion Dance rituals, Mahjong sessions, and thrilling High Pole Lion Dancers.
- Mardi Gras (23 February–1 March): Experience interactive drag artist performances, rainbow nail bars, and sparkling face glitter celebrations.
- Holi Hai! (2–6 March): Participate in digital dhol drumming, henna artistry, turban tying, and a vibrant colour throwing festival.
Each event offers scheduled times for activities, with many running daily from early morning until evening, providing flexibility for families to join at their convenience.
Location and Access
All activities take place at South Eveleigh, Cornwallis Street, Eveleigh NSW 2015. The precinct is easily accessible and family-friendly, with multiple venues including Innovation Plaza, Village Green, and Interchange Pavilion.
The festival is designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with open access to most events and plenty of space for children to explore safely. Public transport options and parking facilities nearby make arrival and departure convenient for families.
Important Information
This is a free public event series suitable for all ages, especially engaging for school-aged children and their parents.
Some activities, like Mahjong and Henna Artistry, may have limited capacity or require early arrival to participate fully. Outdoor events like the Colour Throwing Festival are weather dependent, so dress accordingly.
Please note that some performances and interactive installations run at specific times; checking the daily schedule on the South Eveleigh website is recommended to plan your visit.
Booking and Prices
All events are free to attend with no booking required, making it easy for families to drop in and enjoy the festivities at their own pace.
While most activities are open access, some workshops or sessions may have limited spots; arriving early is advised to secure participation.
No additional costs are involved, making this an ideal cultural outing for families looking to enjoy rich experiences without expense.