THIS September, Bendigo will welcome the return of Zinda, a celebration of multiculturalism that has become a cornerstone of connection and belonging in the region.<\/p>\n
Now delivered under Cultura, Zinda continues its mission of creating spaces where people from all backgrounds are not only welcomed but celebrated.<\/p>\n
On Friday 26 September, Zinda will come alive as a Pop-Up event within the Bendigo Chinese Association’s Harvest Moon Festival at the Dai Gum San Chinese Precinct.<\/p>\n
From 3pm to 5pm, families can enjoy crafts, storytelling, and interactive activities that reflect the creativity and resilience of multicultural communities across Central Victoria.<\/p>\n
For Cultura, the Zinda Pop-Up is more than a festival \u2013 it is a statement about the importance of belonging.<\/p>\n
Festivals like Zinda allow migrants, refugees, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds to see their stories reflected in the community around them. They provide opportunities to share culture through food, music, and art while building connections across generations and neighbourhoods.<\/p>\n
The partnership with the Bendigo Chinese Association acknowledges the long history of Chinese culture in Bendigo and the association’s role in preserving heritage and celebrating tradition. By standing alongside one another, Cultura and the BCA demonstrate the strength of collaboration: two organisations, representing both historic and emerging communities, working together to bring people closer.<\/p>\n
Visitors to Zinda will also be able to experience the vibrancy of the Harvest Moon Festival, including the Dragon and Lion dances, lantern parades, traditional mooncakes, and fireworks. But at its heart, the Pop-Up is about creating a platform for multicultural voices in Bendigo to be heard and honoured.<\/p>\n
“As Bendigo continues to grow as a welcoming city, Zinda remains an anchor for those seeking connection. It is a chance to come together, to belong, and to celebrate the cultural diversity that makes our region thrive,” said deputy CEO of Cultura, Sarah Felsovary.<\/p>\n
“Cultura is excited to be celebrating the vibrancy of our multicultural communities through this wonderful event.”<\/p>\n
The event is free and open to all \u2013 an invitation to experience Bendigo at its most colourful, collaborative, and inclusive.<\/p>\n