From a juggling chef, musicians, stilt walkers, mediation workshops, art shows and kite-making classes, this year’s event promises a little bit of everything for everyone. 

The popular festival kicks off at 11am with a parade from the city’s Arts Precinct (formerly  Civic Plaza) to MacCabe Park where the bulk of activities will be held. 

Wollongong City Council cultural development co-ordinator Megan McKell said  Viva la Gong would transform the city centre, attracting visitors from everywhere. 

The event will showcase at least 80 performances throughout the day featuring more than 200 performers.

‘‘We have tried to do something for everyone, something that will actually attract all the different people in our community,’’ she said.

One performer to keep an eye out for is Benny B (Der Chef) a local performer who mixes circus foolery with the culinary arts. 

Drawing from popular TV chefs and cooking shows such as Hells Kitchen, he promises to have the audience on the edge of their seats. 

‘‘It’s great to have a festival of arts in my area, I love to be part of it,’’ he said.

Ms McKell said there has been overwhelming support this year from performers and  businesses. Viva la Gong 2013 is being curated for the first time by indie bar/music venue, Your and Owls.

‘‘Their enthusiasm in the event shows how the community wants Viva,’’ Ms McKell said.

‘‘The community is  owning it. It’s their festival and it is really exciting,’’ Ms McKell said. 

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Main Stage

11am: Street parade start from Arts Precinct through Crown Street, Globe Lane and MacCabe Park to main stage. 

11.30am: Welcome to country with Carol Seechley and a special performance by Steven Henry and Mark Mongta local didgeridoo artists.

11.40am: Lord Mayor’s address

11.45am: Nick Rheinberger and friends

2.05pm: The Vanns

3.15pm: Beaten Bodies 

6.45pm: Kira Puru and the Bruise

7.55pm: Steve Smyth

9.05pm: Ngaiire

La Petite Grande

Noon & 3.30pm: Russia’s best kept Secret

2pm & 7.30pm: Benny B (Der Chef)

2.30pm & 5.30pm: The Great Heidini

3pm and 6.30pm: Corie and Leigh

The Round Stage

2.45pm: Rhys Scoular

6.15pm: Bec Sandridge

7.25pm: Steel City Muthafunkas

8:35pm: The Grease Arrestor

Illawarra Folk Festival Lounge

2.25pm: Taiko No Wa 

2.55pm: Big Erle

5.30pm: Beatmeister

Community Stage

12.05pm: Dutch Australian Choir

1.20pm: Nan Tien 24 season drum team

2pm: Te Leo Pukapuka language school

4pm: Arcadians Lamplighters Male Choir

Visit vivalagongfestival.org for the full program.