Footscray Park’s Eastern Lawn will be buzzing this Saturday, 13 December, as Christmas in the West returns with a full day of festive music, lights and family fun. Organised by Bongosathi and former Mayor of Maribyrnong Pradeep Tiwari, the free community event has become a highlight of Melbourne’s western suburbs calendar, drawing families from across Wyndham, Brimbank and Maribyrnong.
The forecast looks promising, with clear skies and a mild 25 degrees expected—ideal for an open-air celebration. From 3 pm to 10 pm, visitors can enjoy more than 50 market and service stalls, 20 food vendors, and a line-up of rides, carols and live performances. Santa will make an appearance for photos, while children can enjoy face painting and games.
Festival organisers say the idea is simple: to bring together people from all backgrounds for a day of joy and connection. “This event is for everyone,” said organiser Pradeep Tiwari in a previous statement. “We want families to enjoy the spirit of Christmas close to home, without having to travel into the city.”
The evening will feature fireworks, camel rides and over a dozen group performances showcasing Melbourne’s diverse communities. Food stalls will range from Indian street snacks to barbecue favourites, reflecting the mix of cultures that make up the city’s west.
Christmas in the West runs from 3 pm to 10 pm at Footscray Park’s Eastern Lawn, 40 Maribyrnong Boulevard, Footscray. Entry is free. Visitors can pre-register through the QR code on event posters or via www.christmasinwest.com.au.
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