Belmont’s Harmony Festival Returns To Celebrate Diversity

The City of Belmont’s Harmony Festival is gearing up for its exciting return to Tomato Lake this Saturday, March 22, 2025. The event will run from 4 PM to 8 PM and promise attendees a vibrant evening filled with live music, dance, activities, and delicious food from across the globe.

In conjunction with Harmony Week, which is celebrated across Australia from March 17 to 23, this festival aims to honor the rich cultural diversity of Belmont. With over 40% of Belmont residents born overseas and more than 20% speaking a language other than English at home, the festival is a fitting celebration of the community's multicultural spirit.

Belmont mayor Robert Rossi expressed his enthusiasm for the event, noting, "Harmony Festival is a wonderful reflection of our city — diverse, welcoming and full of life. It’s an opportunity to belong, to share traditions, and to experience something new." He emphasized the festival as a chance for everyone to join together and celebrate cultural richness.

This year’s festival introduces a unique attraction, "The Whale," a stunning 10-meter-long interactive puppet created by the Spare Parts Puppet Theatre. Philip Mitchell, the artistic director of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, explained that the puppet invites the community to participate in bringing it to life. He remarked, "The Whale allows families to imagine the whale’s world up close, inspiring wonder and respect for the natural world through puppetry and storytelling. It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect, learn, and create shared memories." The enchanting puppet is sure to capture the imagination of festival-goers and elevate the experience for visitors of all ages.

Additionally, the festival will host a broad spectrum of live music and dance performances, featuring acts from various cultural backgrounds, including China, Brazil, Cuba, and Creole styles, as well as traditional dances from Noongar and Maori communities. The event also provides opportunities for attendees to engage in various interactive activities, from African drumming sessions to a world-music silent disco and circus skill workshops.

With more than 20 local organizations participating, attendees can expect a wealth of cultural experiences that reflect the diversity present in Belmont. The food stalls will showcase an array of global cuisines, accommodating vegetarians, vegans, halal diets, and gluten-free options to ensure everyone finds something delicious to enjoy.

In a considerate offer for those observing Ramadan, the festival will feature a 'Quiet Zone' where individuals can find a tranquil space for reflection and rest, along with free dates provided for breaking fast.

For logistics, parking at Tomato Lake will be limited, prompting the city to operate a free shuttle bus from Belmont Hub to facilitate easy access for festival attendees. Organizers are keen to promote inclusive participation and hope to ease any concerns regarding travel and attendance.

The Harmony Festival is not just an event; it represents the spirit of community in Belmont where various cultures come together to celebrate their unique traditions and shared humanity. With its rich program of events and attractions, it promises to be an enjoyable and meaningful experience for all who attend. Residents and visitors alike are cordially invited to join this wonderful celebration!