Assyrian New Year festival attracts thousands to southwest Sydney

Thousands flocked to Fairfield Showgrounds in celebration of the Assyrian New Year on Monday.

Tamar Kivarkis holds the Assyrian flag at the Assyrian New Year Festival. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

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Thousands flocked to Fairfield Showgrounds in celebration of the Assyrian New Year on Monday.

The traditional celebration, which dates back more than 6000 years, takes place after the first new moon following the vernal equinox in late March.

Assyrian Khabour Dance group leader George George. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

Assyrian Khabour Dance group member Jouman Roel. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

Many of those in attendance were newly arrived refugees who have settled in Fairfield City.

McMahon federal Labor MP Chris Bowen was among the revellers at the festival,.

Assyrian Khabour Dance group member Mariam Warda. Prairiewood, Monday, April 2nd 2018. Assyrian New Year Festival. A whole array of entertainment will be on display with something for everyone and every age. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

He enjoyed a vibrant array of entertainment such as Assyrian live music, dancers, traditional food, variety stalls, games and rides for children.

L-R Rosana Acosta, Laura Silver, Vanessa Saura and Victor Silvera from the Chorizo Chasers. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

A dramatic art piece based on Assyrian historical records of the new year’s festival in ancient times and the arrival of the King and Queen of Assyria was performed by a collective of Assyrian youth groups.

Jennifer and Simel Khoushaba feed the laughing clowns at the Assyrian New Year Festival. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

The festival concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.

Ramy Yokhana with a Smoke Hookah with Antonie Yokhana and his father George Yokhana. (AAP Image / Angelo Velardo)

For more information about the Assyrian New Year Festival, visit aua.net.au or facebook.com/auaaustralia.