Boxing Day Test: Celebrity chefs, Indian dance and music to light up Australia vs India clash

Whether you are a cricket fan or simply looking for fun activities, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has something for spectators of all ages as they gear up to experience the thrill of the Boxing Day Test match between Australia and India on 26 December.

To complement the excitement within the stadium, the state government has organised "The Summer Festival," which will run during the first three days of the Boxing Day Test.

The event will celebrate the vibrant connection between India and Victoria, showcasing food, music, art, cricket, and community spirit.

In a press conference on 4 December, Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos stated, "It’ll be a huge boost to our local economy, filling hotels, bars, and restaurants as passionate cricket fans flock to Melbourne to pack the MCG."

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos (third from the right) with a group of dancers at the MCG on 4 December 2024.

Dimopoulos added, "This year, there will be as much action outside the MCG as inside, with the Summer Festival offering fun for fans of all ages."

The Summer Festival will feature live music, Bollywood dance performances, celebrity chef demonstrations, food trucks, and pop-up cricket games.

"We know people love this sport, but we’re giving them an experience like no other. The colours of India will be in Melbourne," the minister said.

Experts will provide previews of the day’s play, and big screens will show all the action from inside the ground throughout the day.

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley emphasised the iconic status of the Boxing Day Test, saying, "The rivalry between Australia and India just gets bigger and bigger, and we can't wait to see the MCG full on Boxing Day."

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley speaking a press conference. Credit: SBS Hindi

Hockley added that the game is expected to attract the largest crowd yet, with nearly 10 per cent of spectators anticipated to travel from overseas.

As part of the festival, local celebrity chef Kishwar Chowdhury will present a live cooking demonstration, featuring Australian produce.

Celebrity Chef Kishwar Chowdhury (3rd from Right), also a Masterchef Australia finalist. Credit: SBS Hindi

"Other celebrity chefs will also participate, showcasing dishes highlighting Australian produce," Chowdhury said.

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