The countdown has begun for one of Marlborough’s most anticipated community celebrations, the Marlborough Multicultural Festival 2026 #MMF2026, marking a remarkable 20 years of unity, diversity, and belonging.

From Thursday 26 February to Saturday, 7 March 2026, the Marlborough Multicultural Centre  will host 10 unforgettable days packed with fitness classes, a football tournament, art and dance workshops, and a wide range of community activities designed to celebrate Marlborough’s vibrant cultural spirit.

The celebrations will culminate in the iconic Multicultural Festival on Saturday, 7 March at Pollard Park, Churchill Glade, bringing together thousands of people to share food, music, and traditions from across the world.

A Festival with a Legacy

Every March, Marlborough joins communities across Aotearoa to celebrate Race Relations Day. a time to recognise the strength of diversity and the richness of shared cultural experiences.

Since its humble beginnings in 2006, when just 600 people attended the first festival, the Marlborough Multicultural Festival has grown into a major regional event. The 2025 edition attracted more than 5,000 people, showcasing over 200 performers and 68 stalls: ethnic food, art & craft, and community services.

“This festival is about more than just celebration, it’s about connection,” says Marcelo González, Cultural & Sports Events Manager at MMC. “For 20 years, the Multicultural Festival has created a space where everyone, no matter where they come from, feels welcome and proud to share their culture.”

A Celebration for all ages

Visitors can expect a day full of colour, music, and joy, a place to relax in the sun, taste delicious international cuisine, and enjoy performances from around the world.

Children will have plenty to enjoy too, with face painting, interactive art workshops, traditional games, and opportunities to learn about the many cultures that call Marlborough home.

The festival continues to strengthen Marlborough’s reputation as a connected, inclusive, and welcoming community, while offering migrants and their families a platform to share their traditions and local Marlburians a chance to discover the beauty of cultural diversity.

Get Involved in #MMF2026!

We’re now accepting Expressions of Interest for:

Food Trucks | Food Stalls | Arts & Crafts | Community Services & Information

Submit your EOI here: Register me

We’re also calling for performers to bring the stage to life:

Dancers | Musicians | Sign Language Performers | Artistic Fusions | Other Creative Acts

Register here: Register me

If you love bringing people together, we’d love to have you as a Volunteer!

Sign up here: Volunteer Form

Stay Connected

Follow the latest updates, announcements, and sneak peeks by joining our Facebook Event:

Facebook Event - News and updates

For more information or to discuss participation, please contact our team at:

info@mmc.nz | marcelo@mmc.nz | 03 579 6410

Let’s make #MMF2026 a milestone celebration of culture, connection, and community together!