There will also be a plethora of local performers as well as the return of some favourites such as the IPC Kodama Japanese Drum Group and the Massey University Fire Club. Pacific communities will once again have a strong presence with one Samoan group travelling all the way from Auckland and another from Marton to perform.
Wellington Batucada, who play traditional samba, were one of the highlights of the festival last year, delighting the audience with their rhythms and infectious energy. They had such a good time in Wanganui last year that they offered to return and festival organisers jumped at the chance to have them back.
New Zealand's Got Talent grand finalists and local heroes The Black Trio will perform their unique brand of soulful reggae music at the Festival.
Klezmer Rebs were invited to perform last year but were too busy to attend; this year they managed to find time in their busy performance schedule to come to Wanganui. They are a nine-piece band performing songs in multiple languages, such as German and French, drawing from their European heritage and folk traditions.
In a press release, Mainstreet Wanganui marketing manager Elise Goodge says the festival is unique in Wanganui because it is a real community effort to pull the event together.
"I believe that is the key to its appeal and success, it is organised by the community for the community; that is why the atmosphere on the day is so fun and celebratory. These types of events are what community is all about."
Mayor Annette Main says she is looking forward to the festival as it is a great chance to showcase Wanganui as a diverse and colourful place where commun-ities are interested in one another.
"The Festival of Cultures is a chance for people of all cultures, backgrounds, ages and interests to come together to share food, conversation and a good time. The organisers do a wonderful job of putting the day together and it's become a real asset in our district's calendar. All the performers and audience seem to have a great time."
For more information please visit www.facebook.com/WhanganuiFestivalCultures.
