Western Sydney’s long-running Canterbury Bankstown Children’s Festival will return to Playford Park in Padstow on Sunday 13 September 2026, bringing together families, schools and community groups for a day of performances, activities and cultural celebration.
The festival, which began in 1999 under the leadership of founder Thuat Nguyen AM, has held 43 events across Sydney, including at Darling Harbour, Circular Quay and a range of suburban venues.
Festival president Tuan Dang announced the 2026 event and invited children from across Sydney to take part in the festival’s poster design and writing competitions, both centred on the theme Many Cultures. One Community. Entries close on Friday 21 August.
The festival will also accept nominations for the Children’s Festival Excellence Award, which recognises young participants from festival groups for achievement in learning and practical life skills.
Premier Chris Minns is expected to officially open the festival and will be joined by representatives from federal, state and local government.
Dang said the event aimed to bring families from different cultural backgrounds together through shared activities and performances.
The stage program will feature child and teenage performers presenting cultural songs and dances, ballet, contemporary dance and martial arts displays throughout the day.
Away from the main stage, children will be able to take part in activities including kite-making, rock climbing, calligraphy and community games.
Organisers expect schools, cultural organisations and community groups from across Sydney to participate, continuing the festival’s long-standing focus on youth engagement and cultural exchange.
The festival will run from 11am to 5pm at Playford Park, Padstow. Further information about competitions and award nominations is available at the festival’s official website.
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