There’s less than a week to go before Canberra’s 2024 National Multicultural Festival kicks off and the government is looking to break attendance records.
About 380,000 people attended the 2023 event, and Multicultural Affairs Minister Mick Gentleman promises this year will be “bigger and better” than ever.
“We’ve had some really unique performances come to the ACT. It really draws a big crowd from right around Australia,” he said.
“The entertainment precincts will be lively this weekend, so come on down.”
There will be 80 performances over eight stages, including at Glebe Park.
The headliners have already been announced, but an event in Canberra wouldn’t be complete without a ‘rethink your route’ message from Transport Canberra.
Free public transport will be provided this year from 4:30 pm on Friday, 16 February, to the end of services on Sunday, 18 February.
All you need to do is tap your MyWay card (if you have one) to register a $0 fee.
A free festival shuttle bus will also be available to get attendees around the festival precinct.
There will be several road closures in the lead-up to, during, and after the event (see the map below for full details).
Arrangements have been made for local residents and businesses to gain access during set times.
These road closures also mean there will be some bus detours and stop closures from Thursday, 15 February, until Sunday.
Bus stops 3002 (London Circuit opposite the Legislative Assembly), 3004 (London Circuit after Akuna Street) and 3356 (Legislative Assembly) will be closed. Information on alternative arrangements is detailed online.
However, a special event timetable has scheduled more frequent light rail services.
More services will run in both directions from 6:30 pm Friday to 5:30 pm Sunday.