The sights, sounds, and spicy aromas of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean are coming to Melbourne’s north as Preston Market prepares for its inaugural Sri Lankan Day on Sunday 28 June 2026.
This free, family-friendly event marks the first time the market will dedicate a full day of festivities to Sri Lankan culture. The market precinct will be transformed into a vibrant hub of community celebration, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the whole of Melbourne to enjoy.
Food will take centre stage, with pop-up stalls serving up a mouth-watering array of authentic island fare. Expect a feast of traditional hoppers (crispy rice-flour pancakes) from market favourite Drums, alongside fragrant curries, and zesty sambols. From the street-food spectacle of chopped kottu roti to traditional sweet treats, the day will be a delicious culinary journey from Colombo to Kandy.
Complementing the food on offer will be a full program of traditional entertainment.
From 10am, the piazza will come alive with Sri Lankan live music and dancing, headlined by the Rangana & Udumbara Dance Troupe, who will bring the thunder of Sri Lankan drums and intricate traditional choreography to the heart of the market.
Attendees can witness the grace of classical Upcountry (Kandyan) and Lowland (Pahatharata) dances, with interactive workshops offering a unique opportunity for the audience to step onto the floor and learn the traditional movements themselves.
A highlight of the day will be the Devil’s Dance, an interactive experience featuring vibrant costumes and mesmerising rhythms with an invitation for the audience to participate in this ancient, captivating cultural tradition.
The energy will remain high throughout the day as DJ Rush spins tracks between live sets, all leading up to a spectacular finale by the famous seven-piece Sri Lankan band, DYNAMIC, who will close out the event.
Welcoming Melbourne’s thriving Sri Lankan community and food lovers alike, the inaugural Sri Lankan Day at Preston Market promises a high-energy celebration of one of the world’s most vibrant cultures.
Preston Market Sri Lankan Day 2026
30A The Centreway, Preston VIC 3072
Sunday 28 June 2026
10am – 3pm
