Politicians and shoppers watched cultural performances on Saturday at the AUSINDIA Fair at South.Point Shopping Centre in Tuggeranong.
South.Point marketing manager Carole Arulantu said an estimated 8000 people enjoyed the fair throughout the day.
"Seeing thousands of people from so many different backgrounds come together has been incredibly rewarding," she said.
"South.Point is proud to be more than a shopping centre; we're a place where people come together to celebrate, connect and experience the incredible cultural diversity that makes Canberra such a special city."
The free event featured 30 colourful cultural performances representing Indian, African, Pacific Islander, Tongan, Chinese and Thai communities, live music, cultural displays, community stalls and cuisine celebrating cultures from around the world.
The celebration was attended by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, ACT independent Senator David Pocock, member for Bean David Smith, member for Canberra Alicia Payne, ACT Opposition Leader Mark Parton, Brindabella MLA Caitlin Tough and Indian deputy high commissioner Irina Thaku.
"This country is made up of multiculturalism; it's something we should be proud of and should preserve," Ms Gallager said.
Senator Pocock said: "Thank you to the diverse communities and their contribution to a great city. We need to focus on the things we share in common during these times".
The event was presented in partnership with the Federation of Indian Associations of ACT and Fair Canberra.
"South.Point is a community hub, so by hosting multicultural events like this, we invite the community, and embrace them into the shopping centre. This is our way of bringing multicuturalism to the south," Ms Arulantu said.
FINACT president Divya Ravikumar said the event showcased not only Indian culture but the strength of Canberra's multicultural community.
"FINACT is delighted to have delivered such an exciting program of performances showcasing Indian culture, supported by several other local multicultural community groups," she said.
"Partnerships like this create opportunities to share our culture, strengthen community connections and celebrate the diversity that makes Canberra such a welcoming and inclusive city."
