Spring launches Maribyrnong's vibrant festivals and events season
Published on 20 August 2025
Council will invest $418,500 to support an extensive mix of festivals and activations throughout the 2025/26 events season.
This funding, approved during the August Council meeting as part of the Signature Festivals and Activations Grants Program, aims to invigorate public spaces and strengthen neighbourhood identities through creative, inclusive celebrations.
Council is supporting 19 unique events, including the expansion of Weird Out West into a larger festival, the return of the highly successful Footscray West Writers Fest and Little Africa Night Market for their second editions, and the (new-kid-on-the-block) Harris Street Block Party. Plus, mainstay large-scale signature festivals including Yarraville Festival, East Meets West Lunar New Year Festival, West Footscray Festival of Colours and more.
Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari emphasised the importance of these events in fostering community spirit. “Our funding reflects Council’s dedication to celebrating the cultural diversity and creativity within the City of Maribyrnong. These festivals not only activate public spaces but also provide opportunities for people from all walks of life to come together and connect,” Mayor Tiwari said.
The festival calendar begins next month with the Ethiopian New Year Festival in Footscray and Braybrook’s Festival of Flowers Bathukamma.
Beyond the funded events, Council will also collaborate on a series of partnered festivals, including ‘Fringe Westside’ as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, ‘Jazz Westside’ linked to the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, and ‘Midsumma Westside’ aligned with Midsumma Festival.
Adding to the excitement, Council’s own signature events will light up December with a Festive Season program and the much-anticipated New Year’s Eve Fireworks display in Footscray Park.
For more details about the events and festivals funded, visit:
Maribyrnong News
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