About CREF

The term Chand Raat, meaning “night of the moon” in Urdu and Hindi, refers to the evening when the new moon is sighted, signalling the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. Traditionally, this night is a time of celebration, shopping, community gathering and anticipation—especially in South Asian cultures. CREF honours this tradition and reimagines it within Australia’s diverse social fabric, creating a space where everyone is welcome to take part in the festivities.

Founded in Sydney in 1998, CREF began as a modest community initiative and has since grown into a major cultural event that draws over 20,000 visitors annually. The next edition of the festival will be held on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, Sydney.

The event features live cultural performances, food and fashion stalls, entertainment zones, rides, and dedicated areas for showcasing local businesses and creators. CREF’s unique format blends traditional celebration with contemporary multicultural expression—making it a space that is festive, inclusive and commercially relevant.

Beyond its entertainment value, CREF plays an important role in fostering cultural understanding and civic inclusion. It connects people across generations, faiths and languages, while also supporting local enterprise and community resilience. For many attendees, it is not just a celebration of Eid, but a celebration of the Australia they belong to.

CREF is widely recognised for its community impact and cultural contribution. Over the past 25 years, it has become a trusted and anticipated event on the national calendar, backed by ongoing support from government, local councils and community leaders. Its success lies in its ability to reflect modern Australia—a place where heritage is respected, diversity is embraced and shared moments bring people together.