In an area where 51 per cent of the population comes from a non English speaking background and dozens of nationalities are represented, it is hardly a surprise to find that Ashfield hosts one of the biggest multicultural festivals in Sydney’s Inner West.
This year the ninth annual Carnival of Cultures was held in Ashfield Park in October and attracted people from across Sydney. The day was a celebration of culture with live entertainment, free giveaways, rides, stalls, and plenty of free activities for the kids including face painting, pony rides, animal farm and wandering performers.
On the main stage, highlights included the pulsing beats of Jiva Kayana with their South African township music and the guys and girls from Performing Brazil with their spectacular costumes and dance. Other performances included a traditional Chinese lion dance, bellydancers, Polynesian performers and folk dancers from Poland, Mexico and Greece.
Ashfield Mayor, Rae Jones, said the Carnival of Cultures has a special resonance with local residents and visitors from throughout greater Sydney.
“It’s always a special day to see so many people gather at Ashfield Park,” he said. “It is a true community festival with lots of free activities.”
