Sydney's inner-west community is set to take over Newtown鈥檚 nooks and crannies for the fourth time with the roving laneway festival Reclaim the Lanes.
On Saturday, March 17, the forgotten and underutilised urban spaces of the inner-west will be transformed by the one-day festival. Pockets of artistic experimentation, live music and community participation are expected to bring 500 locals, friends and families out and about to enjoy the colourful spectacle.
Free and organic in its development, Reclaim the Lanes is the product of local artists who believe in the inner-west鈥檚 unique community spirit. They have come together to celebrate the area鈥檚 important history.
Last year, Reclaim the Lanes was one of a trifecta of events that won Sydney Fringe鈥檚 鈥淪pirit of the Fringe鈥 award.
Organiser Chris Lego said: 鈥淩eclaim the Lanes embodies the spirit of the inner-west and the diversity and creative potential which is a huge part of why we live here.
鈥淩eclaim the Lanes is an inclusive event. It鈥檚 vibrancy comes from the diversity of people involved in its organisation, and the extraordinary array of people who enjoy the festival itself.鈥
Key to the event鈥檚 success is its dedication to sustainability (including waste minimisation and recycling) and maintaining positive, respectful relationships with local residents, community members and police.
Reclaim the Lanes is a family friendly event that runs from 2pm-9pm. The parade begins at Newtown鈥檚 iconic Hub. The route of the travelling carnival will be revealed on posters and flyers throughout the Newtown area.
Hundreds of people are expected to join the ever-growing parade that will stop at two secret laneway locations for an hour each to experience the potential of these forgotten spaces of Newtown.
Along the way expect bands, wheelie bin sound systems, games, activities for kids, picnics in the lanes and public art as part of the day鈥檚 entertainment. The procession winds its way in dance and music to a central Newtown location where the festival will continue into the early evening.
[For more information, email Sophie.trevitt@youthclimatecoalition.org or phone 0431 843 095.]