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Maitland Riverlights Festival
Maitland, New South Wales
Transforming into a global village with 50 cultures
About
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of global diversity at Maitland Riverlights! This spectacular event transforms The Levee into a bustling global village, showcasing up to 50 different cultures through an explosion of food, music, and dance. Explore interactive Cultural Villages, savor global flavors at the Riverlights Eatery, and be mesmerized by captivating performances on multiple stages. The festival culminates in a breathtaking finale featuring luminous puppets and a magical lantern river flotilla.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, cultural enthusiasts, foodies
Vibe
Vibrant, multicultural, festive, educational
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free Entry For Main Event, With Costs For Food And Crafts
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Up to 5 days
Ages
All ages
Schedule
Main Event: Saturday 11 October from 2pm – 9pm. Riverlights Finale from 8:00pm. Week of Riverlights: Tuesday 7 October to Friday 10 October.
Featured Performers
- Adam Liaw
Organizer
Maitland City Council
Practical Information
Accessibility
The 'Including You Tent' offers a quiet, safe space for those needing respite from the event's noise and crowds.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Global food trucks and stalls, culinary workshops
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to explore the Cultural Villages and collect your Riverlights Cultural Passport to guide your journey through the global village.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring various stages and interactive areas throughout The Levee.
- Bring cash for food vendors and craft purchases, although some may accept card payments.
- Check the schedule for specific performance times on the various stages to catch your favorite acts and cultural showcases.
- Consider visiting during the 'Week of Riverlights' for a more intimate experience with cultural workshops and activities before the main event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main event date and time?
The main Maitland Riverlights event takes place on Saturday, October 11th, from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the finale commencing at 8:00 PM.
What kind of cultural experiences can I expect?
You can expect to experience up to 50 different cultures through interactive stalls, food tastings, music, dance performances, language sessions, and craft activities.
Is there a program for children during the school holidays?
Yes, there is a 'Week of Riverlights' school holiday program running from Tuesday, October 7th, to Friday, October 10th, featuring cultural workshops and interactive activities.
Where can I find food and drinks?
The Riverlights Eatery, located in Dransfield Lane and Bulwer Street, offers a variety of global-inspired food from local and regional food trucks and stalls.
What is the Riverlights Finale?
The Riverlights Finale is a spectacular closing event on the riverbank, featuring a procession of luminous puppets, a lantern river flotilla, captivating music, dance, and lighting displays.