Marsden State High School students will take to the stage at the 2026 Culture Fest, an annual student-led celebration showcasing the school’s diverse cultural communities.
Happening on Thursday 3 September, the night will feature performances, music, dance and food.
Marsden State High School acting head of student services Rebecca Kele said the event reflects the school’s cultural diversity and had become a highlight of the school calendar, allowing students the opportunity to share their culture and connect with others.
“We have approximately 3800 students within Marsden and it is amazing to have over 13 different cultures being represented on the night,” Mrs Kele said.
For many students, Culture Fest is more than just what happens on stage.
First Nations student Miah said the event gave young people an opportunity to celebrate who they are, and where they come from.
“Culture Fest is about so much more than just the performances. It is about pride, identity, belonging and being able to celebrate who you are without shame,” Miah said.
“I hope people recognise the courage it takes to perform in front of so many people and see that Culture Fest is about so much more than just the performances.”
The event also provides the potential for students to learn about cultures beyond their own.
Burundi student Carine said celebrating diversity was particularly important in a school as culturally diverse as Marsden.
“Because there is such a mix of numerous cultures and ethnicities at Marsden, it is important each and every background has a chance to share their diversity in a communal way,” Carine said.
She said the event helped to create a stronger sense of inclusion throughout the school.
“With this opportunity, it reminds students that this school is a place of inclusivity and appreciation, which can help bring us closer together.”
Among those preparing to perform is Tongan student Samoa, who said representing his heritage at Culture Fest was a source of immense joy.
“Culture Fest 2026 means absolutely everything to me, because my Tongan culture is my heartbeat, my family heritage and my pride,” Samoa said.
Behind the performances are months of preparation, with many groups rehearsing before and after school and during lunch breaks.
Mrs Kele said much of the event’s success came from the students themselves.
“Most of the groups are solely student led and this is also something special to note as the students are doing it because they want to, not because they have to.”
As Culture Fest nears, students hope audiences leave with a deeper appreciation for the diversity, courage and pride on display throughout the evening.
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