Sponsored: A Place to Belong: Marlborough Multicultural Festival Turns 20

On Saturday March 7 from 11am to 3pm, Churchill Glade in Pollard Park will once again come alive with colour, rhythm, flavour and stories from the many and diverse cultural groups who have made their homes in this region.

Adrienne Matthews

What began as a small community gathering two decades ago, is now one of Marlborough’s most loved annual events, welcoming communities from more than 50 nationalities and drawing thousands of locals and visitors each year. More than a festival, it has become a living reflection of what Marlborough is today: diverse, welcoming and connected.

Marcelo Gonzalez, cultural and events manager at Marlborough Multicultural Centre, says reaching the 20-year milestone is both humbling and inspiring.
“We are incredibly proud to be celebrating the 20th anniversary of our organisation this year. It’s a meaningful milestone, and we warmly invite the entire community to join us for this special celebration,” he says.

This year’s event promises four continuous hours of live music, dance and artistic performances. Attendees will notice the addition this year of a professional stage to ensure great visibility.

“It’s wonderful to see how far we’ve come,” Marcelo says. “Having a set up like this means performers can truly shine, and audiences can fully enjoy the experience.”
Food has always been at the heart of the festival, and 2026 will be no exception.

More than 40 ethnic food stalls will transform the park into a delicious global culinary adventure, alongside arts and crafts vendors, information and educational stalls, and interactive experiences for all ages. Free art workshops for children and families will be led by talented Mexican artist Andrea Navarro, with face painting and other activities adding to the festive atmosphere.

Sense of belonging
As Marcelo likes to say, “This is a 3F event: Family, Friendly and FREE.”
An ATM will be available on site, though visitors are encouraged to bring cash as not all stalls will have EFTPOS facilities.

Behind the vibrant performances and irresistible aromas lies a deeper purpose. The festival reflects the wider work of the Marlborough Multicultural Centre, which supports newcomers as they settle, connect and contribute to the region. Over two decades, the festival has become a strong symbol of inclusion and a place where people proudly share their traditions with the wider community.

From Latin American dances and Indian Garba to Pasifika drumming and African storytelling, the stage performances will represent cultures that now call Marlborough home. Children are exposed to different languages and cultures throughout the day, while families share food, talk with one another, and make new connections.

Sustainability is also front of mind this year. Thanks to support from Envirohub Marlborough, recycling stations will be placed throughout the site and a dishwasher trailer service will help reduce waste. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cups, plates and picnic blankets.

"We encourage everyone to be mindful of the environment,” Marcelo says, “and most importantly, bring your best energy to enjoy a truly unique and memorable day.”

At its heart, the festival is about belonging. It reminds us that home is not defined only by where we were born, but by the connections we build and the stories we share. Gather your family and friends together and enjoy a fantastic day of celebration.

Performances on stage:
• Kapa Haka Groups
• Siva Mai Sau la
• MBC Pasifika Group
• Brazilians in Marlborough
• EFKS Samoan Church Youth Group
• Matices Latino Band
• India Garba Dance
• Punjabi Dance
• India - Holi Dance
• Morris Dancers Nelson
• Tuvalu Dance Group
• Balinese Group - Hortus
• African Community
• Chinese Community & Confucius Institute University of Canterbury
• Filipino Group
• Garuda Marlborough Indonesian Community
• Kiribati Marlborough Community
• VPB Dance Academy
• Latin Soul Folklore
• Argentine Tango
• Eufrasia Peneres
• Salsa Cabaret Performance
• Matiu Aotearoa Fusion Sounds