Liverpool City Council's much-loved celebration of Asian culture and cuisine, Lanterns and Lights, returns on Sunday 31 May, marking its first year at Liverpool Powerhouse.
The free-entry one-day festival, part of Council's Experience the World series, runs from 10am to 4pm and takes place across the Powerhouse and surrounding parklands.
Now in its fourth year, Lanterns and Lights has attracted more than 40,000 attendees across previous events and is recognised as one of Council's key cultural celebrations. The move to Liverpool Powerhouse is expected to enhance the event's scope, providing access to indoor exhibitions and dining alongside an expanded outdoor program.
Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun said the new location represents an important step forward for the event.
"Lanterns and Lights has become a much-loved event for our community, celebrating the diversity that defines Liverpool, Mayor Mannoun said. Bringing the festival to the Liverpool Powerhouse allows us to offer an even richer experience for residents and visitors."
The program will feature a range of cultural performances representing communities from across Asia, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Korean groups. Scheduled acts include the Pink Lotus Dance Group, Red Maple Leaves, the Sydney Okinawan Group and KPOP Demon Hunters.
Additional entertainment includes martial arts demonstrations, Chinese acrobatics, Indonesian mask dancing and roaming lion performances.
A series of free, family-friendly workshops and activities will also be available, including KPOP dance workshops, origami, mask making and martial arts sessions. A screening of the animated film Raya and the Last Dragon will be held for families.
Food vendors will offer a wide selection of Asian cuisines, while Bellbird Dining and Bar at the Powerhouse will feature a dedicated Asian-fusion menu.
Mayor Mannoun said events such as Lanterns and Lights play an important role in bringing the community together while supporting local businesses.
"Events like this not only celebrate culture but also support our local economy by attracting visitors to Liverpool," he said.
Event Details at a Glance
What: Lanterns and Lights Festival
Where: Liverpool Powerhouse (adjacent to Casula Station)
When: Sunday 31 May, 10am – 4pm
Cost: Free entry. Food and purchases as desired. Film screenings $5 per person
Bellbird Dining and Bar, fine dining restaurant within Liverpool Powerhouse, will feature a unique festival menu with rich Asian inspired sharing plates.
Sydney Yun Yee Tong Dragon and Lion Dance will perform throughout the day.
Nusantara Sydney Dance (Indonesia) were a crowd favourite at last year's event.
