Footscray’s biggest street festival returns on Sunday in celebration of the Lunar New Year.
The East Meets West Lunar New Year Festival will bring the sights, sounds and smells of Vietnamese culture to the heart of Footscray in a day-long feast for the senses.
Thousands of people are expected to turn out at Hopkins Street to welcome in the Year of the Monkey with a festival parade, cultural dances, musical performances, food stalls and carnival rides.
Co-ordinator Hai Pham says the festival has grown from humble beginnings more than two decades ago to be a bridge between the Vietnamese people and other communities.
“Over eight years, the festival has been transformed into a truly multicultural event showcasing the cultural diversity and cohesiveness of Footscray, a place where East really meets West,” he said.
A flag-flying performance will open the festival and there will be lion-dancing, firecrackers going off and live music throughout the day, including from traditional Vietnamese bamboo music band Tre Vang.
Food stalls will take over the streets and there will be games and rides for all ages followed by a fireworks display to end the festivities.
“We’re delighted to have the support of many traders, including Footscray Market which will provide free parking for the day and fireworks for the finale,” Mr Pham said.
Maribyrnong mayor Cameron McDonald said the festival was a signature event on the Festival City program.
“The streets of Footscray will come alive with dancing and celebration in an event not to be missed,” he said.
The festival runs from 10am-10pm this Sunday.
