Festival to dye Torquay again in 2023

TORQUAY’S Foreshore will again be the site for the region’s Festival of Colours following confirmation of the event’s date in 2023.

Hundreds are expected to converge at Elephant Walk on Sunday, February 26 between 11.00am-4.00pm to celebrate the human spirit.

Lead organiser Keshava Jenkins is excited to see the event return with more relaxed restrictions.

“We had perfect conditions in the event’s return after a couple years off and we’re excited for the next one in February, Torquay’s foreshore will again provide the ideal location for it,” Mr Jenkins said.

Mr Jenkins added the event’s primary purpose is to promote peace and harmony within the community, not just in Torquay, but across the Surf Coast and beyond.

Derived from India’s Holi celebration, which takes place on March 8 worldwide, the Festival of Colours on the Surf Coast has been a familiar sight since it began in Lorne in 2018.

This year’s edition of the festival attracted close to 500 residents and visitors with some travelling all the way from Melbourne. Jenkins is hopeful for another big turnout.

“There’s a lot on offer at the festival, we’re close to the beach, weather is generally favourable, and we have access to the shopping precinct nearby, so everyone has the option to take in what Torquay is all about,” Mr Jenkins said.

“Additionally, there have been a bunch of restrictions at the event the last couple of years, but this time around we’ll be able to return it to a more open occasion.

“It’s a great chance to meet people, enjoy the live stage entertainment, have your face painted or fortune told and soak up the festive atmosphere.”

In addition to free event entry, dyes are now available for purchase. The event will again be alcohol, drug, smoking and meat free.

The Festival of Colours is coordinated by Hare Krishna Valley, and supported by the Surf Coast Shire and Victorian Multicultural Commission.

More information on the event can be found at www.festivalofcolours.com.au