Dandenong Festival of Light
As the weather warms up in Melbourne there is one event that families should put on their list of must sees. The multicultural melting-pot city of Dandenong is hosting a festival of lights. A celebration of Chinese culture the Dandenong Festival of Lights showcases a vibrant collection of giant silk lanterns against the night sky. Running now until the 18th of October there is still time to take the kids out to view the beautiful lanterns before the festival closes. The event is produced by the Chinese Cultural Works and after successful tours in Europe and China has landed in town. My own kids were entranced by the spectacular silk lanterns including aspects of Chinese culture, such as the Chinese zodiac, Disney favourites from Finding Nemo and animals from the past and present – dinosaurs, insects and Aussie kangaroos included.
Dandenong Festival of Light
Adding to the ambience are a Chinese soundtrack and cultural shows. A selection of food trucks and a handful of carnival rides for young children contribute to making the evening a success.
What we loved about the Dandenong Festival of Lights:
-It is not too commercial. While the event is not cheap, once you are through the gates the child nag factor is kept in check. There are only a couple of rides ($5 each) and few stall holders. The stars of the evening are very much the silk lanterns.
-The English language placards in front of the lanterns were a scream. Some rather dodgy translations of Chinese placards obviously but somehow reading these just made it more fun.
-The Dandenong Festival of Lights appealed to our entire family.
Dandenong Festival of Light
Dandenong Festival of Lights is will be at Greaves Reserve (the Dandenong Showgrounds) in Bennett Street Dandenong until the 18th of October. It is open each night from 6pm. A family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children is $55. You can purchase tickets online or at the gate.
Dandenong Festival of Light
Dandenong Festival of Lights
Dandenong Festival of Lights
I love that dragon!
I loved the dragon too. It was a bit more traditional Chinese than some of the others (which were also great).