Visitors to the Boxing Day Test will be able to snack on tandoori chicken tacos and samosa burgers while watching performances by international artists as part of a new festival celebrating the colour and movement of India.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today joined Cricket Australia Chairman Earl Eddings in Yarra Park to open the Indian Summer Festival ahead of the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test.
The Andrews Labor Government has partnered with Cricket Australia to put on the free, three-day festival which features a diverse program of art, live music, food, film and cricket.
Highlights of the festival include more than 20 food trucks and stalls from some of Melbourne's favourite chefs, a shipping container installation showcasing Indian street art, an open-air cinema and performances by international and home-grown artists.
Today's festival opening and family day will give cricket fans of all ages the chance to meet their favourite players from the Australian and Indian men's cricket teams and get an autograph signed.
Attendees can also put their skills to the test on a miniature 'Azad Maidan' free play cricket pitch, styled after the famous Mumbai cricket ground
The Indian Summer Festival continues over days one and two of the Boxing Day Test with a full program of exciting events and activities.
The three-day festival at Yarra Park, outside Gate 4 of the MCG, is free and open to all members of the public.
The festival supports Victoria's India Strategy, launched in January, by showcasing Victoria as a world-class destination for sports, tourism and culture, and as a welcoming business and trade partner.
The full festival line-up and event details are available at www.indianfestival18.com.au.
As noted by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
"With the series all tied up at one test apiece, we're expecting huge crowds at this year's Boxing Day Test and this festival will give attendees the chance to experience a slice of India as well as some first-rate test cricket."
"From amazing Indian food to free play cricket zones and performances by local and international artists, the festival has something for everyone."
As noted by Cricket Australia Chairman Earl Eddings
"It's exciting to be bringing the Indian Summer Festival to the Boxing Day Test and celebrating the relationship between Australia and India, the vibrancy of the Indian community in Victoria, and the many things that unite us, with cricket at the centre of it all."
