Eid festival fun in Point Cook

Two young participants in traditional dress at the Point Cook Eid Festival on April 20. (supplied) 404276_01

Point Cook Pop-Up Park was lit up on Saturday, April 20 with a vibrant and bustling celebration of Eid-al-Fitr.

Organised by Activate Youth, the second-ever Point Cook Eid Festival witnessed a strong turnout as members of the Wyndham Muslim community came together to celebrate the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The event included traditional performances, face-painting, games, competitions, and food, while an assortment of stalls showcased local small businesses offering clothing, henna tattoos, perfumes, crafts, and traditional desserts.

Event organiser, Benish Chaudhry, hailed the festival as a stellar success.

“The Eid Festival was not just a celebration for those within the Muslim community but an opportunity to share the beauty of Eid with the wider community,” she said.

“By opening its doors to all, Activate Youth exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and cultural exchange, inviting individuals from diverse backgrounds to join in the festivities.”

Ms Chaudhry also thanked local organisations such as IREA, UMRA, IMCV, MedicFirst, Viola Community Care, CoLocal and the Wyndham Community and Education Centre for their support and helping make the festival happen.

Local dignitaries such as Point Cook MP Matthew Hilakari, Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, deputy mayor Josh Gilligan and councillor’s Adele Hegedich, Susan McIntyre, and Jasmine Hill were also in attendance.

Activate Youth are already looking ahead to next year’s Eid Fest and are inviting community participation and suggestions to make the event even better.

Those interested in providing suggestions, volunteering or becoming a member are encouraged to follow the @activateyouthau Instagram page.

Cade Lucas