Queensland Cultural Diversity Week kicked off last weekend, with a packed program full of events spreading as far north as Cairns and as south as the Gold Coast. Running until this Sunday September 7, the positive celebration will keep Brisbane dwellers of all ages and backgrounds busy and educated. Head along to the Brisbane Multicultural Arts Centre (BEMAC) tomorrow, Friday September 5 from 7:30–9:30 pm as the Jazzab Ensemble performs original music to lyrics borrowed from Persian poets, while free comedy debate Stop The Goats will keep the laughs rolling at the Brisbane Powerhouse from 8:00 pm.

On Saturday, BEMAC will play the role of host once again as the Himalayan Film Festival takes you deep into Himalayan culture with three film sessions from 12:00–8:00 pm. If the big issues have left you in need of a little light relief, head to West End State School where you can help celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s Independence Day with a Caribbean Party. Get your dancing shoes on and enjoy Caribbean music courtesy of the Rivercity Steel Band, as well as authentic Caribbean rum punch, coffee and nibbles from 6:30–11:00 pm. The following morning, start your Sunday with a spot of exercise and goodwill from 8:30 am. The 2014 Creswalk will raise funds and awareness for the humanitarian effort in Gaza, with 2.5 km and 5 km routes starting from Orleigh Park in West End. That afternoon, Windsor Brass will treat you to toe-tapping rhythms at Dance ‘Til You Drop in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens on Mount Coot-tha from 2:00–3:00 pm. Find details of these and more events online.