Things to do  |  9 Feb 2023

After a year break Christchurch’s biggest celebration of diversity is back.

Culture Galore 2023 is set to be held at Ray Blank Park in Ilam from noon until 4pm on Saturday 18 February.

“We’re so pleased to be back with this popular cultural event after the last year was affected by Covid. You’ll be able to see all parts of the world come together and celebrate our diversity in your own backyard,” Head of Community Support and Partnerships John Filsell says.

“The team has been working hard to make this year’s Cultural Galore an extra special day for the whole community.”

Highlights include more than 20 stage performances including Māori kapa haka, Chinese lion dance, Irish dance, Japanese Kung Fu and singing, Polish folk dance and so much more.

On top of the performances, there will also be a wide variety of ethnic cuisines served up at 35 food stalls, as well as arts and crafts.

“Plus we know families will be looking forward to getting involved in some of the hands on activities such as flax weaving, face painting, archery, bouncy castles and a police speed radar,” Mr Filsell says.

The event is supported by the Waimāero/Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood and Waipuna/Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Boards.

“This is one of our most popular community events of the year. We’re expecting 5,000 people. These numbers show how much Culture Galore has grown since it was first held in 2001,” Mr Filsell says.

“From food to arts and crafts and music and dance, the many cultures who now call Christchurch Culture Galore helps unite our wider community as we all celebrate the value of diversity.”