Running from 5pm to 9pm each night, the free festival will bring people together to experience the traditions, flavours and performances of cultures from around the world.

City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the return of the award-winning festival was an opportunity to celebrate the people and cultures that make Perth such a wonderful place to live.

“Last year, 27,000 people came together at Elizabeth Quay for our very first Multicultural Festival. Since then, it's been named Australia's Best New Event, and I couldn't be prouder of what we've created right here in Perth,” Mr Reynolds said.

“One of the greatest things about our city is the extraordinary mix of cultures, traditions and communities that call Perth home. Our diversity isn't just something we acknowledge, it's something we should celebrate.

“And what better way to celebrate than bringing thousands of people together for two fantastic nights of music, dance, food, fireworks and entertainment from around the world.

“There's something really special about seeing families and friends from all walks of life coming together, sharing their traditions, discovering new cultures and creating memories.

“That's what makes events like this so important. They don't just bring our city to life, they bring our community closer together.

“So, whether you're celebrating your own heritage or discovering a culture for the very first time, come down to Elizabeth Quay and be part of something truly special.”

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s festival will showcase performances from 10 cultural groups representing Mexico, Thailand, China, India, Burundi, Poland, Colombia, Hungary, Germany and Brazil, bringing the colour and energy of their cultures to Elizabeth Quay’s iconic floating stage.

Hosted by Ernie Dingo and Tina Altieri, the festival program also features special musical performances from Croatia and Italy, a spectacular celebration of Noongar culture, dance and entertainment, and a fireworks finale.

The Lord Mayor also thanked the festival's major supporters.

“Events of this scale wouldn't be possible without the support of our partners, and I want to sincerely thank Lotterywest and DevelopmentWA for helping us deliver another wonderful celebration for the people of Perth.”

Festivalgoers can enjoy a wide variety of food trucks serving cuisines from around the world, along with kids’ workshops and cultural activities. Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional attire to celebrate cultural identity and pride.

Families can also make the most of Elizabeth Quay’s existing attractions, with the Water Park open from 10am to 6pm and the carousel operating from 10am to 8pm each day. A Sensory Space will be available near Gusto Gelato from 5pm to 9pm.

The inaugural festival, held at Elizabeth Quay in November 2025 has recently been awarded Best New Event in Australia at the Australian Event Awards.

Event details

  • What: Perth Multicultural Festival
  • When: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2026, 5pm–9pm
  • Where: Elizabeth Quay, The Esplanade, Perth
  • Cost: Free

Find out more at Visit Perth.

Footage from Perth Multicultural Festival 2025 here.

 

ENDS

Issued by: Hannah Marcuson [email protected]

 

Road closure information

3pm – 10.30pm

  • Geoffrey Bolton Avenue
  • Duchess Way
  • Enchantress Way

7pm – 9:30pm

  • William Street (between The Esplanade and the Mitchell Freeway on/off ramp)
  • Birdiya Drive (Northbound)

The Esplanade will NOT be closed at any point throughout the day.

Parking

Please refer to parking signs for any temporary parking restrictions in place for the event.

Elizabeth Quay footbridge closure

The Elizabeth Quay Footbridge will be closed from 4pm to 10:30pm each night. Pedestrian detours will be provided via the eastern and western promenades around the inlet.

Closure map