Cultural Diversity Week 2018

About

Cultural Diversity Week is Victoria’s largest celebration of multiculturalism. Championing the many peoples who have settled in Victoria and the original owners of the land, the festival runs from March 17th–25th.

Almost half of all Victorians were either born overseas or have at least one parent who was. With over 200 countries, 260 languages and 130 different faiths all represented, Victoria is truly a cultural melting pot.

This year’s theme is “Proud to Belong”. The idea is to emphasise belonging, not just to our own cultures but to society at large, and to take ownership of being inclusive and respectful of everyone.

“Cultural Diversity Week celebrates our rich diversity and promotes a harmonious society,” said the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Hon. Robin Scott MP.

“Our thriving multicultural community groups work tirelessly to promote diversity and cohesion.”

“We’re home to one of the most multicultural societies on earth – and Victorians are proud of it.”

What’s On

The highlight of Cultural Diversity Week is the Multicultural Festival, held on Saturday 24th March at Fed Square. With great food, a market, kids activities and live performances on the main stage, it’s a chance to experience a little bit of everything Victoria has to offer.

And then stay into the evening to catch Culture Waves, a concert showcasing some of Melbourne’s hottest up and coming artists.

There’s also a whole heap of great events on during the rest of the week, all over Melbourne. Check out the events calendar for more information.

It’s really important that Australians understand how diverse and wonderful our country is, and all the benefits that come from sheltering so many different cultures under one flag. The food alone is gift enough! There are so few countries around the world where you can eat the range of cuisines you can here, and we think that’s something to celebrate.

If you’re in Melbourne next week, take some time to go check it out.