SalamFest is a family-friendly Muslim arts festival that captures the true message of Islam – peace, love and compassion.

It is an opportunity for communities to engage and connect with everyday Muslims through the sharing of stories, values, arts, culture and cuisine encapsulating the spirit of multiculturalism that Victoria is known for. The objective of the festival is to invite people from all walks of life to celebrate and explore new cultures and enjoy the long-standing artistic talents entrenched in the 70 plus diverse ethnicities represented under the Muslim umbrella.

Friday is Jumu’ah (Friday prayer and reflection session), at Federation Square. All people regardless of their background and spirituality and invited to come and reflect.

Saturday’s festival day features indigenous yoga, art, fusion instrumentals, live comedy, films, Rumi recitals, Sufi chanting, workshops, drumming and performances. There will be artists from the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the subcontinent, including Qawwali by Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad ensemble.

On Sunday the festival moves to the Queen Victoria Market to showcase more music and culture from the Muslim world.