Riverlights has this unique ability to bring the community together and is a real celebration of diversity and multiculturalism
- Loretta Baker
MAITLAND's CBD will be transformed into an international village as part of this weekend's Riverlights Multicultural Festival.
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On Saturday, The Levee will be taken over with a diverse and colourful selection of cultural experiences from across the globe.
Curious Legends have curated the finale on the Hunter River, which will happen after the Riverlights Procession that starts at the World Stage at 8.30pm before moving through The Shared Zone and along the riverbank.
The finale will also include the spectacular lantern flotilla, that will create a mesmerising atmosphere at the conclusion of the event.
Curious Legends artistic director Mitchell Reese said the group had a few surprises up their sleeves for the festival finale on the riverbank.
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"Riverlights is such a fun event to be a part of. Walking through the festival is a feast of colour and sound for the senses," he said.
"This year we're excited to be creating the festival finale - think giant, illuminated puppets, vivid storylines, and a floating projection screen on the water."
Curious Legends have been responsible for the last two festival finales which have featured the stories of 'Tiddalik the Frog' and 'The Tiger, the Holy Man and the Jackal'.
Mayor Loretta Baker said the multicultural festival, which incorporates a wide range of activities, is a highlight in the city's calendar.
"Maitland Riverlights is always such a special night out and I'm particularly excited to see what Curious Legends do this year," she said.
"Riverlights has this unique ability to bring the community together and is a real celebration of diversity and multiculturalism."
Along with the finale performance and lantern flotilla, there's will also be an official welcome and citizenship ceremony to start the festival.
There will also be a range of stage performances, the Language Lounge, workshops, the Riverlights Eatery in the NAB car park and 21 cultural villages to visit.
Maitland Riverlights is on at The Levee this Saturday, October 12 from 3pm to 9pm.
For more information about this free family friendly event visit maitlandriverlights.com.au.
