newy.com.au – More than 50 cultures will be represented in Central Maitland when the city’s Riverlights festival returns for five days in October.
The program will run from Tuesday, October 6, to Saturday, October 10, with workshops and activities planned at Maitland libraries, Maitland Regional Art Gallery and other locations.
Celebrations will culminate in a free main event at The Levee on Saturday from 2pm to 9pm, featuring more than 20 cultural villages, traditional food, live performances and fashion displays.
Visitors will also be able to collect a free “Cultural Passport” and have it stamped as they move between the villages.
A parade and lantern flotilla will travel along the Hunter River after sunset, followed by a light show to close the festival.
Maitland mayor Philip Penfold said Riverlights gave residents an opportunity to share their cultures and traditions as the city grew.
“Our city is growing, and with that growth comes a richer mix of cultures, traditions and experiences,” Cr Penfold said.
“Riverlights is a chance to celebrate that diversity, bring people together and share the stories and traditions that make Maitland such a vibrant place to live.”
The broader five-day program is expected to include cultural workshops, language and storytelling sessions, art and other activities. Maitland City Council is yet to release the full schedule, including details of individual performances and workshops.
Riverlights is presented by the council and The Mutual Bank, with funding support from the NSW government through Multicultural NSW.
