Lakemba Nights: A New Era for Australia’s Largest Cultural Festival

Over one million attendees and a major fee restructuring mark a turning point for the iconic Ramadan event in Sydney's west.

Event Overview

Lakemba Nights, Australia's largest cultural festival, is held annually during Ramadan on Haldon Street in Sydney's west. In 2025, approximately 1 million people attended.

Fee Structure Change

Previously, stallholders paid between $10,000 and $30,000 to secure a spot in front of shops.

Following a restructuring by City of Canterbury Bankstown Council under a NSW government initiative, fees have been significantly reduced and are now paid directly to the council rather than local businesses. Stallholders reported saving an estimated $20,000.

Voices from the Event

Mohammed Zarqa, a vendor at the event for 14 years, described the change as "right" and "more professional."

John Graham, Minister for the Arts and the Night-Time Economy, stated that the program has succeeded in cutting costs and ensuring the event's financial longevity after a period of "touch-and-go."

Bilal El-Hayek, Mayor of Canterbury Bankstown, noted that reusing installations at other events helps reduce costs.

Program Impact

The Permit/Plug/Play pilot grant scheme, involving 16 councils, has delivered a remarkable result:

Average event costs have been reduced by two-thirds.

A new round of funding offers up to $500,000 to 24 local councils, extending the program's reach and impact across New South Wales.