Event organisers say the festival has gained widespread support from the community each year and this year will be bigger than ever with more than 20 performances over several stages as well as workshops and international food stalls.

'This year more than ever, we are proud of creating a large-scale celebration of humanity, diversity and belonging in our region' Jo McGregor of STARTTS said.

The language lounge, where you can ask to have your name written in languages such as Farsi, Arabic, or Dharsi, and learn a few new words, or test your skills in the flag guessing competition. There will also be hair braiding and drumming workshops, Tibetan throat singing, theatre performances and dancing.

The Festival will be held from 11am to 3pm at the Newcastle Foreshore near the Tramsheds.

The Community is encouraged to meet at the Newcastle Foreshore for the Welcome Walk at 11am which is a festival tradition to show solidarity of Unity in our Diversity.

Following the walk, and Awabakal Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony at the Foreshore will open the festival.

The Festival is sponsored by City of Newcastle, the University of Newcastle and STARTTS and is held in conjunction with Unity in Diversity, Refugee Action Network Newcastle, Zara's House, the Education Department and the multicultural services sector of Newcastle.

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