IN A fine celebration of food, family, culture and community, the Albanian Harvest Festival will transform Shepparton’s Queen’s Gardens into an abundant display of the region’s primary fruit-growing industries and proud Albanian heritage.
“We’re so excited that the festival is back on again,” said Shepparton Albanian Moslem Society president, Reg Qemal.
“Held annually each March in Shepparton, the event is regarded as one of the largest Albanian cultural events in Australia now, bringing Albanian people from around the country together to share in traditional food, music and dancing.”
The Harvest Festival also boasts a fruit and vegetable market that offers produce at wholesale prices, most of which is grown locally. This has drawn substantial attendees from Melbourne in previous years, who take advantage of the opportunity to purchase produce direct from farmers.
The event was developed in Shepparton over 20 years ago as a way for the Albanian community to celebrate its culture and help Albanian families in the area keep in touch. Since the organising committee made the decision to move the festival into a more central location a few years ago, the cultural mix of people attending the festival has broadened considerably.
“As a result, our committee would very much like to encourage a more diverse crowd to come along and help us celebrate our culture by sharing our entertainment, food and traditions,” said Reg.
Gates open 11am Sunday, March 19 in the Queens Gardens. Extra parking can be found behind Council’s offices on Marungi Street. Entry is free this year, with the opportunity to enter the $5 raffle and go in the draw to win a trip to Albania.
For more information, find Shepparton Albanian Harvest Festival on Facebook or visit sheppartonalbaniansociety.org/harvest-festival
