On Monday, Chinese and North Indian dance routines gave a vibrant prelude to the exciting program that awaits visitors to the International Street Fiesta at Toowoomba’s Queens Park on Saturday, November 1.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald launched the 2025 International Street Fiesta after a welcome and overview from International Street Fiesta organising committee chair and Toowoomba International Multicultural Society (TIMS) president, Mrs Gitie House, OAM.
Monday’s launch was a taste of what to expect at the November event, featuring a Kathak dance from North India by Sheena Bala and a Chinese dance celebrating the jasmine flower by Amy Zheng and Joyce Wang from the Toowoomba Tai Chi and Chinese Dancing Group.
Mrs House said the Fiesta was a great family outing that celebrated the Region’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
“Toowoomba is a vibrant kaleidoscope of cultures, colours, aromas and flavours from every continent,” she said.
“People from all backgrounds and ages can come and join us in the Region’s biggest multicultural celebration at the Fiesta.”
Mrs House said Toowoomba continues to draw new residents from across the world.
“The Fiesta is a chance for our different cultural groups to showcase their individual customs and heritage through songs and dance,” she said.
“Fiesta visitors will be able to enjoy performances by musical and dance groups showcasing 35 cultures including Sinhalese, Chinese, African, Indian, Filipino, Bangla, Punjabi, French, Middle Eastern, Colombian, Nepalese, among others.
“International foods from around the globe will treat patrons to flavours from Afghanistan, Syria, Nepal, Africa, Japan, Malaysia, Hungary, Greece, India, Spain, Mexico, Korea and many other countries.
“A special feature this year will be the addition of Multi-cultural Australia’s Luminous Lantern Parade, supported by the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs. Everyone can join in the festivities.
“You can bring your own lanterns or make some at the Fiesta earlier in the day and join the Grand Finale Parade in a trail of lanterns.”
Mayor McDonald praised organisers and sponsors for contributing to one of the Region’s most lively events.
“The Fiesta is a joyous celebration of the talented groups that are proud to share their traditional songs and dance routines with fellow residents,” he said.
“It’s impossible not to be swept up by the passion of the performers and gain a better appreciation of how important these customs are to individual groups and how much they contribute to our modern identity.”
Toowoomba Regional Council is providing TIMS with $40,000 in event sponsorship.
More information about food and stall applications and how to volunteer is available at tims.org.au/international-street-fiesta/get-involved or send a query to isf@tims.org.au.
Entry to the Fiesta from 3pm to 8pm is free, with food and drinks available to purchase.
This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 14 August 2025.
