Making spirits bright with new grants for festive celebrations
Published on 18 September 2026
Community groups and local organisations will have the opportunity to bring festive celebrations to life across Maribyrnong, with Council endorsing a new $50,000 Festive Fund for activities in November and December.
The Festive Fund (Quick Response) Grants Program 2026 will provide targeted funding for accessible, community-led festivals, events and activations that celebrate the festive season and strengthen connections between local communities.
Successful activities will be eligible for promotion through the Maribyrnong Festive Calendar, helping residents discover and participate in celebrations taking place across the municipality.
Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra said the new grants program would help local groups create welcoming opportunities for people to come together.
“The festive season is a wonderful time to celebrate our diverse communities and the places we call home,” Mayor Semra said.
“This fund will give local organisations and community groups a helping hand to turn their ideas into welcoming, inclusive celebrations that bring people together.
“Whether it’s a neighbourhood gathering, community celebration or activity in a local public space, we want to support events that strengthen local identity and create opportunities for people to connect.”
The Festive Fund is designed to support activities that encourage inclusive participation, activate public places and contribute to a vibrant and connected city.
Council’s guidelines establish clear eligibility, assessment, governance and acquittal requirements for the program, with a $50,000 funding pool proposed for 2026.
If the 2026 program is successful, Council will consider making the Festive Fund an annual funding stream as part of the Festivals and Activations Framework, which is due to be reviewed in the first half of 2027.
To check your eligibility and to apply for a grant, visit the Festive Fund (Quick Response) Grants page.
Maribyrnong News
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