Next month, Parramatta’s North Cultural Precinct will be transformed into a hub of activity, where history and fun meet for the city’s annual Foundation Day. The event promises a delightful mix of heritage, culture, and entertainment for the whole family, offering everything from horse cart rides to live music.
Whether you’re keen to take a leisurely ride in a horse-drawn carriage or explore Parramatta’s history through guided heritage tours, there’s something for everyone. Even the youngest attendees will be entertained with a petting zoo, while traditional trade demonstrations offer a glimpse into the past.
For those with a creative streak, George Buchanan, the winner of Making It Australia, will host a hobby horse-making competition—an activity that’s sure to bring out the inner artist in every family member.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr Martin Zaiter, highlighted the importance of the event, saying, “As Parramatta continues to grow, it’s essential to acknowledge the people, stories, and heritage that have shaped the city.” He added that Foundation Day offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with their shared past.
Cr Zaiter also encouraged families to come along, noting that the day is far from just a history lesson. “We want everyone to join in—whether it’s enjoying artefacts from the Parramatta Heritage Centre, browsing stalls at the fair, or watching live demonstrations. It’s a day for making new memories while reconnecting with the old.”
The festivities will also include a 3D virtual tour of Parramatta’s early days, allowing visitors to experience the past using cutting-edge technology. Meanwhile, archaeological artefacts on display will offer an up-close look at items unearthed from the city’s foundations.
As part of the celebrations, a series of short films will be screened on the lawn, featuring notable historical figures like Baludarri, one of the first Indigenous traders with the settlers, and Betty Eccles, a convict turned dairy maid who became Australia’s oldest.
With so much on offer, from family-friendly activities to fascinating historical insights, this year’s Foundation Day promises to be an event that will both entertain and educate.
Event Details
- When: Saturday, 2 November 2024, 9 am – 2 pm
- Where: Parramatta North Precinct, 5 Fleet Street, North Parramatta
- Cost: Free
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