Fest of Cultural Unity

Whanganui’s much-loved Fest of Cultural Unity is returning to Majestic Square.

  • Saturday, 29 October 2022
  • 10am–4pm
  • Majestic Square, Whanganui

After a long wait, Whanganui’s much-loved Fest of Cultural Unity is returning to Majestic Square to dazzle eyes, ears and tastebuds.

Presented by Born & Raised Pasifika, with support from Mainstreet Whanganui and a team of committed volunteers, the Fest has existed in one form or another for more than a decade now and has grown to be a real highlight of the local events calendar.

Festival Chair, Hellen Puhipuhi, says as well as being a chance to enjoy incredible food, the Fest is all about bringing the community together to share cultural experiences and celebrate diversity.

“After a long period without many local events, this is a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and embrace Whanganui’s beautiful, multicultural community. And what better way to do that than with delicious kai and awesome live entertainment?”

Mainstreet Whanganui’s Community Liaison, Geoff Follet, has helped coordinate the festival for many years and says it’s great to see it back in action after missing 2021 due to the dreaded ‘C word’. In particular, Geoff’s looking forward to the culinary delights on offer.

“The Fest is always jam-packed with different flavours, and this year there’ll be upwards of 20 food stalls representing all corners of the globe – including Sri Lankan, Dutch, Pasifika, Chinese, South African, Indian, Greek and Māori cuisine!”

As always, live entertainment will be a big part of the day too, with music, dance and cultural performances from groups representing a kaleidoscope of nations and cultures.

Some of the highlights to look out for in 2022 include Rizki and the Vagancy – a roots reggae group with members from Indonesia and South America, modern and classic Indian dance from Shivam Dance Academy, and traditional folk dance from members of the Ukrainian community.

Check it out on Facebook

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