Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair

The Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair in Sydney takes place on the Sunday after Eid-Ul-Fitr, the most important annual event in the Muslim calendar, marking Ramadan’s end.

It is attended by thousands of Sydney residents from over 35 communities throughout the city.

Australia’s longest-running and largest multicultural Eid festival started in 1985 when Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad, a community leader for the Muslims, realised that there was no real celebration for Eid outside people’s homes. Meanwhile, it was celebrated in his home country through large festivals and gatherings.

To recreate the festivities in Sydney, he began with a small celebration held at the play area of a primary school. Today, it’s a highly anticipated festival for the Muslim community, creating a platform for them to celebrate in a fun atmosphere where all faiths and cultures are welcome to attend.

The market stalls feature various cultural costumes, clothing, perfume, jewellery, toys, books, and more. Attendees are invited to sample the numerous food stalls serving up authentic cuisine from Turkey, Pakistan, India, and Japan – among others. These include kebabs, gozleme, sugar cane juice, tandoori chicken, butter chicken, coconut drinks, and Western carnival food such as hot dogs, burgers, fairy floss, snow cones, and slushies.

The Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair also features cultural performances where people from all backgrounds present traditional dance, song, acrobatics, and plays. Kids’ attractions include monster truck rides, animated dinosaurs, carnival rides, animal farms, photo booths, reptile shows, arts and crafts, and more.

The festivities take place at the Fairfield Showground, located on Smithfield Road in Prairiewood. Free parking is available on site, and there are two entries: one on Smithfield Road and the other on Greenfield Road. Free shuttle buses take attendees to and from the venue for your convenience.