Harmony Fest Program to celebrate diversity in our community

Ballarat Harmony Fest returns in its 11th year from 12 – 28 March and is set to inject more colour and movement into  the City's busy March events calendar. 

Harmony Fest wraps around Harmony Day, the United Nation’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, celebrated on 21 March. 

This vibrant celebration of diversity has grown each year since its launch in 2010 and Cr Belinda Coates, Chair of the Intercultural Advisory Committee  says this year’s Harmony Fest program provides even more opportunities for people to reflect on and celebrate the many cultures in Ballarat. 

“The festival is a collaboration between the City of Ballarat and numerous community groups that promotes diversity through the sharing of aspects of different cultures, whether it's through music, dance, food, story-telling or discussions,” she said. 

This year’s (virtual) flag raising ceremony will take place on 16 March and will include a speech by Michael Akindeju, President of the Ballarat African Association. 

Other highlights include:  Islamic Art and Calligraphy Workshops, a Women’s Business Pop-Up market, meet your neighbour morning tea event, community street soccer, an Indian Film festival and story times at the Ballarat, Wendouree and Sebastopol Libraries. 

For a full program of events click here

The City of Ballarat is committed to building a culturally sensitive and socially cohesive community through a range of initiatives, such as Harmony Fest, the Intercultural Ambassador Program, the development of the Intercultural Strategic Plan 2018-21 and by declaring Ballarat a Refugee Welcome Zone.