The NECF 2024 will exhibit the vibrant tapestry of communities residing in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne, alongside the enthusiastic participation of both new and well-established communities from across the city, including international students and local Merri-bek & Hume residents. This event will be a celebration of diversity, featuring a rich array of performances such as songs, cultural dances, workshops, drumming shows, as well as displays of art and craft. Attendees can also enjoy engaging in various sports activities, relish cultural foods, and partake in the festivities.

The showcasing of traditional arts and crafts will serve as a platform for fostering cross-cultural connections, highlighting the cultural richness and diversity of Victoria. Additionally, the diverse range of cuisines from various countries will offer a taste of modern Australia’s multiculturalism. Children can indulge in numerous entertainment options including free rides, face painting, henna, and sports clinics for AFL, soccer, and netball, among others.

Various attractions will include information stalls from Victoria Police and Fire Rescue Victoria, as well as participation from communities such as Afghan, Nepalese, Bhutanese, and Didi Bahini Samaj Victoria, among others. The overarching goal of NECF 2024 is to unite mainstream Australian communities and diverse ethnic communities under one banner. By embracing and celebrating diversity through music, food, dance, sports, and collective joy, the festival aims to foster a sense of unity and dispel any perceptions of “us” versus “them” regarding multiculturalism.