The National Multicultural Festival is set to make its return in February 2026. Picture: National Multicultural Festival.
Canberra’s beloved National Multicultural Festival, affectionately known as the Multiculti, is making its grand return from 6 to 8 February 2026.
Now in its 28th year, the festival has grown from humble beginnings in the 1980s into one of the city’s most vibrant celebrations of cultural diversity.
From immersive performances and storytelling spaces to decorative installations and hands-on experiences, the event offers something for everyone.
“It’s a really nice way to meet new people,” says Cameron Dawson, who first volunteered in 2023.
“Everyone’s here to help and celebrate together.”
This year, he’s most excited to see Canberra’s diversity on full display.
“Multiculti is such an iconic Canberra festival, bringing together amazing food and performances from all over the world. As someone who enjoyed going to the festival for several years, I decided it would be great to contribute to it by volunteering,” he says.
“I love being out and about at the festival, interacting with the public and helping people find their way around and answering questions they might have.”
The festival relies on volunteers to keep things running smoothly. Roles range from front-line support to behind-the-scenes logistics, including:
- Support & Info: Patron support, information tent assistant, volunteer hub assistant
- Programming & Logistics: Program team assistant, workshop assistant, stage assistant, precinct assistant
- Leadership & Coordination: Information tent coordinator, stage MC
- Operations: Festival set-up and pack-down, parade assistant.
Mani Thakur’s first year as a volunteer was in 2025, and she explains that it was an opportunity to learn about new cultures and expand her social circle.
“I like to volunteer, and I think it’s the best way to enjoy the festival,” Mani says.
“The festival is a lot of fun, and it’s a chance to socialise with new people from different backgrounds.”
Mani enjoyed her time so much this year that she plans on volunteering again in 2026.
“Volunteering at the festival is a satisfying experience, and people who are interested in getting involved should come forward to apply.”
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Michael Pettersson explains that “Volunteers are the backbone of the National Multicultural Festival, working hard to ensure that visitors have the best possible experience over the festival weekend”.
“Multiculti is a large, logistically complex event, and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the hundreds of volunteers who give their time each year. I’m grateful to all volunteers – past, present and future – for their incredible contributions to the festival,” he continues.
Whether you’re performing, volunteering, or simply soaking it all in, the Multiculti festival promises a vibrant celebration of Canberra’s multicultural spirit.
Applications to become a volunteer close on 15 December.
