Northern Territory community encouraged to celebrate multiculturalism

The Northern Territory community is being encouraged to celebrate multiculturalism this Saturday with vibrant community events being held in Darwin and Alice Springs.

In Darwin, the popular Harmony Soiree returns to the Darwin Waterfront with an evening of music, dance, cultural displays and international cuisine.

Alice Springs will come alive with the ‘Big Day Out in Harmony’; a family-friendly festival showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the heart of Central Australia.

NT Minister for Multicultural Affairs Jinson Charls said the Territory's diversity was something to be embraced and celebrated and noted “Multiculturalism is an integral part of the Territory lifestyle, and this Saturday is set to be an exciting day for communities in Darwin and Alice Springs.

“It’s the perfect time to enjoy a performance you haven’t seen before, try a new cuisine, or have a chat and learn about a culture you don’t know much about.

“There’s a tremendous amount of pride among people in the Territory who are passionate about sharing their culture with others."

This year, the NT Government has supported multicultural celebrations with $56,000 through the Harmony Grants program.

This enables community organisations to deliver an array of performances, food stalls and cultural activities both during Harmony Week earlier this year and at the upcoming 31st May events.

The Harmony Soiree is delivered by the Office of Multicultural Affair in partnership with the Darwin Waterfront, Darwin Community Arts, and the Multicultural Council of the NT.

The Harmony Soiree will take place on the Darwin Waterfront’s Peninsula Lawns from 4.30pm to 8.30pm, featuring performances from over 25 cultural groups, more than 21 community stalls, a traditional fashion parade, and a lantern-decorating competition for children.

At twilight, guests will gather to release their lanterns into the Recreation Lagoon in a display of unity and peace.

The Big Day Out in Harmony at the Alice Springs Town Council lawns will run from 12pm to 4pm, offering henna art, cultural dress experiences, live performances and delicious food from around the globe.

Both events are free. For more information.