Community Festival 2026

From junk to funk, ordinary recycled materials are transformed into extraordinary musical instruments, bringing forgotten objects to life in surprising and joyful ways. 

Audiences are invited into a world of inventive puppetry from Jeff Achtem of Bunk Puppets. Using everyday household objects, Jeff creates evocative and humorous shadow puppet sketches that delight audiences of all ages. 

A vibrant aerial spectacle performed atop a bespoke sway-pole apparatus; this performance is inspired by the richness and diversity of the floral world, bursting with colour, movement and transformation. 

Featuring renowned Oromo singer-songwriter Muluu Baqqalaa with Tigrinya vocalists Anbessa Gebrehiwot and Haftu Reda.

Accompanied by traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian stringed instruments, Chikchika weave important stories of culture, love and peace into percussion heavy and up-tempo tunes.

3pm Lawn Stage

Inspired by the sounds of New Orleans and fused with the energy of the Melbourne streets, the group has earned themselves a reputation for delivering raucous shows built on strong foundations and insatiable energy. 

Sunday 15 March 2026, 11am–5pm
Civic Lawns, Civic Centre
25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang

Yes. Entry is free and all entertainment and activities are free, including theatre shows at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC).

Food vans and local market stalls will be operating, so you may wish to bring money for purchases.

Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to bring bags to dispose of droppings.

Download the flyer for full program details(PDF, 624KB)

Printed programs will also be available from the Information Tent on the day.

First Aid will be available on-site at the Civic Lawns.

If you are lost or searching for someone, visit the Information Tent.

If you find a lost child, bring them to the Information Tent or locate a staff member in a high-vis vest.

The festival will feature theatre, music, circus, dance, sport, workshops and more.

Free children’s activities include roving performers, face painting and art workshops.

Key festival areas include:

• Lawn Stage
• Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC)
• Explore the City of Whittlesea
• Pet Expo
• Sustainability Lane
• Youth Zone
• Emergency Expo
• Roving entertainment
• Food vans and market stalls.

No, there are no ATMs on site. Most vendors will accept cashless payments, but it is advisable to bring some money for food and drink purchases.

Lost property will be managed at Council’s Information Tent.

A Parent Pod will be available within the Family Zone, providing a safe and private space for parents and carers.

Toilets and accessible toilets are located on site.

Full toilet and baby change facilities are available inside PRACC.

The Marveloo (high-needs accessible toilet) is located near the Civic Centre and requires a MLAK key.

We aim to make the festival safe and welcoming for everyone.

• Wheelchair and mobility access is available across many areas, including a designated viewing area at the Civic Lawn stage.
• Some grassed areas may vary in accessibility depending on individual requirements.
• PRACC is fully wheelchair and mobility accessible.
• Auslan interpreters will be present at the Civic Lawn Stage and Youth Stage.
• Accessible parking and bathrooms are available, including the Marveloo.

Dress for an outdoor event and check the weather.

Bring sun protection or wet weather gear.

You are welcome to bring your own picnic food and snacks if you have specific dietary requirements.

Water stations will be available, so bring a refillable water bottle.

Any updates or cancellations will be announced on our website or via the City of Whittlesea Facebook and Instagram pages.

A range of food trucks and market stalls will be available. Visitors with specific dietary requirements may wish to bring their own food.

Smoking is not permitted on Council lawns or within the event site. A designated smoking area will be available.

A dedicated prayer and reflection marquee will be located in the PRACC courtyard.

This event will be captured by our photographers and videographers for use on social media and in City of Whittlesea marketing materials.

By attending the event, you are agreeing to have your image used for these purposes. If you would not like your image captured, simply let one of our friendly staff know.

Yes. We’d love to see your pictures. If you’re posting on Instagram, feel free to tag us @citywhittlesea to share your discoveries with the community.

We are committed to improving sustainability across all our events and festivals. This year, the Community Festival will feature Green My Plate, reusing and rewashing crockery and cups to reduce waste going to landfill. Once you are done with your meal, please place your reusable plate in the pink bin provided.

While water will be available for purchase, we kindly ask you to be mindful of the environment and bring a water bottle to refill at our many water stations which also saves you money.

Location
Civic Centre
25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang

By public transport
The site is well serviced by public transport:

• South Morang Station (Mernda line)
• Bus routes: 556, 383 and 577

Plan your journey via the Public Transport Victoria website.

Ride your bike
Temporary bike parking will be available within the dedicated bike zone. Please bring a secure lock.

By car and parking
Parking is available at the Civic Centre.
We encourage visitors to carpool, use public transport or ride where possible.
Additional parking is available adjacent to South Morang Train Station.

Follow the City of Whittlesea on Facebook and Instagram for updates on the day.