The 'Festival of W' storymap: creative placemaking in action
In July 2024 the Power of Public Spaces research team visited Wagga Wagga, on Wiradjuri Country in the Riverina Region of NSW, for the Festival of W.
This storymap explores examples of creative placemaking and connections with the river that take place during the festival.
The Festival of W is an annual two-week event run by Wagga Wagga City Council as part of the Open Streets program, which aims to inject vibrancy into our streets and create thriving local spaces that support businesses, creative sectors, and the community through community events and activations. The $8.7 million program is a part of the NSW Government’s Vibrant Streets Package, a commitment to help transform streets into thriving local places that support businesses, creative sectors, and the community.
During the Festival of W the city and surrounds are transformed, showcasing artists through light installations, music and associated programs. Best viewed at dusk and night time, this example of a temporary transformation of public space provides insight into the ways in which councils are creatively activating sites in regional Australia.
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