Preston Market is set to come alive with the sounds, flavours and energy of Sri Lanka next month, with the market launching its first-ever Sri Lankan Day on Sunday 28 June.
The free community event will transform the market precinct into a full-day celebration of Sri Lankan culture, bringing together food stalls, live music, traditional dance and interactive performances in the heart of Melbourne’s north.
Food will be front and centre throughout the day, with market favourite Drums serving traditional hoppers alongside a lineup of authentic Sri Lankan dishes. Visitors can expect fragrant curries, spicy sambols, chopped kottu roti and a range of classic sweet treats inspired by flavours from across the island nation.
From 10am, the market piazza will host a packed entertainment lineup celebrating Sri Lankan music and dance traditions.
The Rangana & Udumbara Dance Troupe will headline the live performances, bringing traditional drumming, intricate choreography and colourful costumes to the market throughout the day.
Audiences will also be able to experience classical Kandyan and Lowland dances, with interactive workshops inviting visitors onto the dancefloor to learn traditional movements for themselves.
One of the major highlights will be the Devil’s Dance, a centuries-old performance tradition featuring elaborate masks, rhythmic drumming and audience participation.
Between live performances, DJ Rush will keep the atmosphere going before the event wraps up with a closing set from popular seven-piece Sri Lankan band DYNAMIC.
Sri Lankan Day marks the first time Preston Market has dedicated an entire event to Sri Lankan culture and cuisine, reflecting Melbourne’s growing Sri Lankan community and the city’s appetite for multicultural food festivals.
With free entry, live entertainment and plenty of food stalls to explore, the event is shaping up as one of the market’s biggest cultural celebrations of the year.
