Different community groups are being invited to conduct traditional coffee and tea ceremonies during the festival day.

Maribyrnong Council media and communications co-ordinator Jennifer Legge said the ceremonies would include those of the African, Indian and Japanese communities.

"It's something every one of those cultures can bring to the table in terms of the role that coffee and tea plays in their culture, because it's such a staple in so many places."

It is just one way in which Footscray's multicultural past and present will be incorporated into the celebrations.

Under heated marquees in the Nicholson Street Mall and Maddern Square, there will also be a hawkers' market. Residents will be able to try a range of different cuisines, including Aussie classics.

A diverse range of entertainment will be on show: West African dance and drum group Muhanamwe, performing arts company Kita (which specialises in Asian dance), Ethiopian circus performers Afro Habesha, Brazilian music and dance group Neda, and headlining hip-hop artists Diafrix. The event is being promoted through all culturally and linguistically diverse communities.