Editors note: As we begin the digital era of the Vjesnik, we’re looking back at some of our favourite articles from the New Gen archives.
The National Multicultural Festival 2025 in Canberra was a vibrant celebration of culture, diversity, and heritage, with Croatian traditions shining particularly brightly.
Held from Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9, the festival brought together thousands of visitors, offering them the chance to enjoy the richness of over 170 multicultural communities. One of the most memorable performances was by the Croatian Folklore Group.
Glebe Park transformed into a lively stage for Croatian culture as the groups from HFS Croatia performed traditional music and dance sets. The Croatian group captivated the audience with a dynamic display of the rich folklore of our country.
The band Ekipa also won the stage with their music. The audience, mostly from different nations, quickly absorbed the energy and joy of the performance and enthusiastically joined in the Croatian kolo dance. It was a moving moment that reflected the spirit of the festival, which promotes inclusivity and cultural exchange.
“Thank you for joining us for three incredible days of celebrating culture, diversity, history, and heritage,” said the festival organizers, emphasizing the importance of bringing communities together through art, music, and food. The Croatian Folklore Group’s performance was a proud moment for the Croatian community, showcasing the beauty of Croatian music and dance to a wider, diverse audience. The musicians from Ekipa confirmed this as well.
The dedicated team at Canberra Croatia FC also made it possible for many visitors to try traditional Croatian food and drinks at their stand: ćevapi, ražnjići, sarma, kranjska sausages, and fritule attracted many who refreshed themselves with Croatian beer and wine.
The National Multicultural Festival is an annual event that celebrates many cultures in Canberra, offering visitors a chance to enjoy food, art, music, and dance from all around the world. This year, festival-goers had the opportunity to savour delicious Croatian dishes, enjoy traditional music, and learn more about the history and culture of the Croatian people.
Despite the changing weather, the event continued to thrive, as people from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds came together to participate in the celebration of multiculturalism. From vibrant international food stalls to lively performances crossing continents, the festival was a testament to the strength of unity and the importance of embracing diversity.
For Croatia, participating in this prestigious event was more than just sharing their culture—it was a way to connect with other nations and showcase the richness of Croatian traditions to a broader audience.
The National Multicultural Festival 2025 in Canberra was a reminder of the beauty that arises when we unite through our shared love for culture and creativity. For the Croatian community, it was an unforgettable opportunity to leave their mark in the vibrant mosaic of Australian multiculturalism.