Akito Festival in Melbourne 5 April 2021

The pandemic of COVID-19 caused the cancellation of many events and activities in 2020. In Melbourne, due to lockdowns, many people were forced to stay at home and were deprived from going out or celebrate. But comes 2021, a different picture. No more lockdowns so far and celebrations are on.

The Tradition goes on Source: SBS Assyrian

Assyrian new year or the festival of Akito will be celebrated by the Assyrian, Chaldean, Syriac community in Melbourne.The festival will take place on Easter Monday 5/04/2021 at Broadmeadows Park.

Member of the Assyrian Council of Victoria, Ms Valentine Aghajani, told SBS, this year's Akito festival is a double celebration,. It falls on Easter Monday, so people can come and greet each other, celebrate Easter and the Assyrian new year. Many dignitaries, local and state politicians are invited. Members of the Police and fire brigade will be there. Singers from Melbourne and Sydney will be there to entertain the public.

Normally the festival is held by the Assyrian council of Victoria along with many Assyrian organisations. It used to be celebrated at the the Hammurabi centre in Melbourne. That venue now is been closed because the council is constructing a big sports venue in that complex. Despite the short notice, the organising committee managed to book the Broadmeadows park for the festival. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.