Country Music Icon Troy Cassar-Daley and Hip-Hop Star L-FRESH the Lion to Headline 2026 National Multicultural Festival
Australia’s vibrant cultural spirit will take centre stage once again as the 2026 National Multicultural Festival transforms Canberra City into a living celebration of diversity and unity from 6–8 February 2026.
Leading the star-studded lineup are two powerhouse performers from distinctly different musical traditions: country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley and Australian hip-hop phenomenon L-FRESH the Lion.
Cassar-Daley, one of Australia’s most beloved artists with a career spanning three decades, will perform on Sunday 8 February from 4 pm to 5 pm. A proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung man, the multi-award-winning musician is renowned for his heartfelt storytelling that captures “the everyday triumphs, struggles, and joys of Australians from the city to the outback.” With more than 30 No. 1 singles, gold and platinum albums, and a deep connection to country music traditions, his performance is expected to be a festival highlight.
Joining him is L-FRESH the Lion, the Sydney-born artist of Punjabi-Sikh heritage, whose innovative blend of hip-hop and cultural identity has earned him national acclaim and international collaborations with icons such as Nas, Hilltop Hoods, and Talib Kweli. Performing on Friday 6 February from 10 pm to 11 pm, L-FRESH promises a high-energy set that embodies empowerment, identity, and unity themes central to the festival’s spirit.
Adding to the excitement, Canberra’s own Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga, a proud Wiradjuri and Tongan vocalist known for her breathtaking performances on The Voice, will support Cassar-Daley during his main stage performance.
The three-day festival will also feature hundreds of cultural performances, food stalls, and family-friendly experiences. Highlights include:
- Fields of Belonging – a sports and multiculturalism panel featuring athletes from the Raiders, Brumbies, and Cricket Australia.
- Queen of Hearts – an all-female Mariachi band blending modern sounds with traditional Mexican influences.
- MusicACT Takeover – a showcase of contemporary artists from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Family favourites like Glow and Tell by Patch Theatre, the Rice and Peas Jamaican Dancehall Party, and the CMAG Family Sanctuary.
ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Michael Pettersson MLA, called the 2026 edition “unmissable,” emphasising that it will combine the best of tradition with fresh experiences:
“In its 28th year, the festival is all about discovery, where beloved favourites meet fresh experiences that surprise and delight,” he said. “Even after almost three decades, there’s always something new to experience at the National Multicultural Festival.”
The annual event, known as one of Canberra’s most cherished celebrations, continues to unite more than 150 cultures in a joyous display of music, food, dance, and community connection reflecting the essence of Australia’s multicultural identity.
For more information about the program and schedule, visit the ACT Government’s official website.
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