Action packed schedule for final week of La Fiesta in Whanganui

La Fiesta favourites Renee Milner (left) and Juliet McLean will present a special International Women's Day performance at Space Gallery on Friday. Photo / Sarah Williams

It has been 10 years since Whanganui Women's Network manager Carla Donson came up with the idea of holding a festival to celebrate International Women's Day.

La Fiesta has now grown into a three-week long celebration of women and the 2019 edition concludes this week.

International Women's Day will be celebrated in 30 countries around the world on Friday, March 8, and this year's theme is Balance for Better - a call-to-action for driving gender balance across the world.

The La Fiesta programme has seven events lined up for Whanganui with a sunrise walk, a breakfast at the Grand Hotel, meditation, motivation and three special music events.

The Ladies Rest in St Hill St will host DJ Maddy spinning a selection of music by women musicians and there will be drumming and belly dance demonstrations from midday.

In the evening, Space Gallery in Taupō Quay will host Taranaki musicians Juliet McLean and Renee Milner with their blends of acoustic jazz, soul and folk music.

Donson said the 2019 festival, which has included music, film, theatre, art, craft, literature, health and wellbeing, business and fun events like the ever-popular Frocks on Bikes has been "absolutely brilliant."

"A lot of the events were booked out in advance and we've had many international and out of town visitors.

"The local support has been amazing as well."

La Fiesta concludes on Sunday, March 10 with the Fab Fiesta Finale at Lucky Bar + Kitchen.

A showcase of local talent, the evening will include performances by poet Airini Beautrais and music from Taiuru, Awa, One Trick Pony and Rupuha Soulz.

Tickets are $10 at the door from 6pm and the show starts at 7pm. Performers are donating their talents to support the Whanganui Women's Network.

To see the full La Fiesta Programme visit lafiestanz.com or visit 75 St Hill St, Whanganui.