Join La Fiesta line-up

Pitched as New Zealand’s coolest little festival, Whanganui’s unique celebration of women and community La Fiesta is set to roll from February 14 to March 10.

The Women’s Network co-ordinates this event every year, with the festival being the brainchild of manager and festival co-ordinator Carla Donson. Invitations to participate in La Fiesta’s 10th birthday celebration are now open to the public. If you have an idea for an activity, or would like to run one, the Women’s Network would love to hear from you. All activity and event ideas need to be submitted by November 23. Previous festivals have featured food demonstrations, theatrical productions, documentary screenings, creative opportunities, musical performances, and a host of activities.

Carla is excited the programme continues to capture the imagination of people in Whanganui. It has also attracted visitors from across the central and lower North Island. The festival earlier this year featured presenters from the Manawatu¯ , Taranaki and Wellington regions. Carla stands by her claim that La Fiesta is unique in New Zealand, and the line-up has previously featured some award-winning female musicians such as Anna Coddington, Amiria Grenell, Jess Chambers and Lisa Tomlins; with award-winning comedian Michele A’Court headlining in 2016.

One of the major focal points of the events programme is its celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) commemorated annually on March 8. IWD was established in 1911 and is officially sanctioned by the United Nations as a day to reflect on women’s progress and to continue challenging for change. Celebrated as a national public holiday in almost 30 countries around the world, IWD continues to be an important day for political mobilisation and consciousness-raising.

“La Fiesta provides opportunities for our community to meet incredible women going about their ordinary lives in truly remarkable ways, demonstrating their cando attitudes, courage, and profound wisdom; as well as introducing you to some men that are hugely supportive of women’s leadership,” says Carla.

■ For more information about the festival or to register your expression of interest, contact the Women’s Network ph [06] 345 6833, email: womnet.wang@ callplus.net.nz or visit the official festival website: http:/ /lafiestanz.com