Sydney’s vibrant South Eveleigh precinct is set to transform into a kaleidoscope of cultural experiences with the inaugural Colour. Culture. Connection. Festival. Running from 16 February to 6 March 2026, this groundbreaking event seamlessly blends three of the world’s most celebrated festivals: Lunar New Year, Mardi Gras, and Holi Hai, into a cohesive, three-week program designed to engage and delight visitors of all ages.
A Trio of Celebrations Unveiled
The Colour. Culture. Connection. Festival is conceived as an immersive, sensory-driven journey, offering a diverse array of free public events, captivating performances, and hands-on activities. Organizers aim to foster exploration, engagement, and connection through a rich tapestry of global traditions, positioning South Eveleigh as a hub for cultural innovation and community spirit.
Lunar New Year: Welcoming Fortune and Renewal
The festival kicks off by embracing the traditions of Lunar New Year from 16 to 22 February. A unique highlight is the BaZi Augmented Reality Mirror experience, available daily from 7 am to 10 pm. This innovative offering merges ancient Chinese astrology with cutting-edge technology, allowing participants to explore their personal BaZi readings in an interactive and engaging manner.
The spirit of good fortune will be palpable on 18 February at 11:30 am with the traditional Plucking of the Greens ceremony. The iconic lion dance, a symbol of prosperity, will weave through the precinct, engaging with lettuce placed by local businesses in an auspicious ritual.
For those keen to delve deeper into cultural pastimes, Mahjong sessions are scheduled for 19 February (11:00 am-2:00 pm) and 21 February (10:00 am-1:00 pm). These sessions are designed to welcome beginners, with guides on hand to share insights into the game’s strategic depth and rich history.
The Lunar New Year celebrations culminate on 21 February at 1:00 pm with the thrilling High Pole Lion Dance performed by the renowned Jin Wu Koon. This spectacular display of agility and strength atop elevated poles promises to be a visually stunning cultural performance.
Mardi Gras: A Spectrum of Pride and Expression
Transitioning seamlessly from Lunar New Year, the festival embraces the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras from 23 February to 1 March 2026. The precinct will come alive with the Drag Me Interactive experience, featuring on-screen drag artists entertaining and engaging with visitors throughout the day (7 am-10 pm). These lively personalities will add a dose of humor and playful charm to Innovation Plaza, Village Green, and the Interchange Pavilion.
Adding a touch of glamour and self-expression, the Glow up Nail Bar will be available on 24 and 26 February from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Located outside CommBank on Locomotive Street, this pop-up salon offers rainbow nails and glittery accents, providing a perfect opportunity to celebrate pride and individuality.
Holi Hai: The Joyous Festival of Colors
The Colour. Culture. Connection. Festival concludes with the exuberant celebration of Holi Hai from 2 to 6 March 2026, infusing South Eveleigh with the joyous spirit of India’s famous color-throwing festival. From 7 am to 10 pm daily, visitors can immerse themselves in the beats of Holi with the Dhol Drum Game Studio Digital Experience at Innovation Plaza, Village Green, and Interchange Pavilion, offering a chance to test rhythmic skills.
On 3 March, the precinct will host Henna Artistry, Turban Tying & Performances from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Skilled artisans will showcase intricate henna designs and turban tying techniques, accompanied by cultural performances, offering a deep dive into Holi traditions.
The festival culminates on 3 March from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a spectacular Colour Throwing Festival at Innovation Plaza, near BrewDog. This highly anticipated event invites everyone to participate in joyful powder play, celebrating unity, happiness, and vibrant color.
The Colour. Culture. Connection. Festival champions inclusivity and the powerful intersection of culture and technology. By embracing these diverse cultural celebrations, South Eveleigh aims to foster a welcoming environment where innovation and tradition converge, creating enriching experiences for all. All events are free, encouraging visitors to explore, discover, and connect within this dynamic Sydney destination.
