Festival Name: Sacrededge Festival
Theme: The Sacrededge Festival is an annual celebration of diversity and inclusivity, bringing together people from various backgrounds to explore the themes of living together, justice, inclusiveness, and community. It showcases voices “from the edge,” including First Nations, LGBTIQA+, refugees, and environmental advocates. The festival provides a platform for these voices to be heard through various forms of art, music, stories, and workshops. It promotes a sense of unity, understanding, and appreciation for the unique contributions of these diverse communities.
Dates: The festival typically takes place in early May. For example, the 2023 edition ran from May 5th to May 7th.
Location: Queenscliff, Victoria, serves as the picturesque backdrop for the Sacrededge Festival. The main venue is the Queenscliff Uniting Church, located at the corner of Hesse and Stokes streets in Queenscliff.
Unique Features:
- Diverse Presenters: Sacrededge features over 30 presenters, artists, and performers from various backgrounds, including Indigenous, refugee, and LGBTIQA+ communities, as well as environmental activists.
- Inclusive Environment: Unlike traditional festivals, Sacrededge prioritizes creating an inclusive environment for all ages, where attendees can learn, connect, and celebrate diversity.
- Visual Art Exhibition: The festival hosts an annual visual art exhibition that invites local and international artists to contribute pieces reflecting the diversity theme.
- Ocean Labyrinth: A beautiful Ocean Labyrinth is installed in nearby Citizen Park, offering scheduled walks throughout the weekend.
- Community Engagement: Local Tamil refugees serve a delicious meal on one of the festival nights, fostering community engagement.
Activities: The festival offers a wide range of activities, including welcome to country ceremonies, music performances, interactive art spaces, keynote speakers, international meals, workshops, and more. These activities cater to individuals of all ages and interests.
Past Events: The 2023 Sacrededge Festival highlighted various presenters and events, including First Nations words, music, and art by Lydia Fairhall, Indigenous art exhibitions, spoken word performances by Fleassy Malay, interviews with authors like Jonathan Butler, transition stories from trans and gender-diverse families, and the return of storyteller Awale Ahmed, among others.
Website Address: Sacrededge Festival Website
Facebook Page Address: Sacrededge Facebook Page
Local Area Tourism Information: Queenscliff, Victoria, is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an appealing destination for festival-goers. The coastal town offers stunning ocean views, historic architecture, and opportunities for outdoor activities like beachcombing, hiking, and exploring the local shops and cafes. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like the Queenscliff Music Festival and immerse themselves in the town’s rich cultural and artistic scene.
