The laughter, colour, and clatter of the Children’s Festival will return to Playford Park in Padstow on Sunday 21st September, marking another year of community connection, costumes, and chaos of the best kind. First held over 25 years ago, the festival has become a fixture on the multicultural calendar in New South Wales and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Last year, Premier Chris Minns stood before a sea of excited families and told the crowd, “It’s such a privilege to be here to see kids coming together off their devices, off their mobile phones and playing in the community.” This week, in a written message, he reaffirmed his support: “For more than 25 years, this festival has brought families and communities together to celebrate everything that makes our multicultural community special.”
The free event, organised by the Children’s Festival Organisation and led by founding president Thuat Nguyen AM, is designed as an all-day celebration with stage performances, martial arts, music, stalls, and a creative showcase of poster designs and writing entries from children. There will be food, games, and more than a few chances for parents to stop and take a breath or a selfie.
A standout moment is always the children’s parade, featuring hundreds of kids in national dress and school uniforms walking past an assembly of public figures and community leaders. On this year’s guest list: Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare, Minister for Youth Justice Jihad Dib representing the Premier, Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis, Shadow Minister Mark Coure (TBC), East Hills MP Kylie Wilkinson, and Multicultural NSW CEO Joseph La Posta, among others.
Tony Burke, Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, said the event “recognises the contribution our children, their parents and friends have made to create an inclusive and cohesive society, a society that is culturally diverse and representative of our community.”
For many, it’s a reminder that diversity is not just tolerated but embraced in this part of Sydney. The parade, the flags, the foods, the languages—it’s not a showcase. It’s just the neighbourhood showing up. And it works.
“This is a day that each member of the family can enjoy,” said Mr Nguyen, inviting families from across the city to drop by anytime throughout the day. “We look forward to welcoming you at Playford Park.”
- When: Sunday 21 September
- Where: Playford Park, Padstow
- More info: www.childrensfestival.org.au
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