La Fiesta

La Fiesta is an annual women’s festival presented by the Women’s Network in Whanganui, New Zealand. Established in 2010, it describes itself as Aotearoa New Zealand’s best and longest-running women’s festival, welcoming local, national and international participants. In its first 17 years, the festival attracted around 50,000 people and brought together more than 100 partners across 35 Whanganui venues.

The 2026 festival is scheduled for 11–29 August and features 90 activities and events. Its programme offers art, music, workshops, educational talks and lectures, introductory sports activities, guided tours, yoga and other opportunities to learn, connect and try something new. La Fiesta aims to champion women and girls, engage the community and encourage confidence, motivation and connection. Inspired by International Women’s Day, it provides a month-long platform to focus on gender equality and the rights of women and girls.

The festival also welcomes event proposals, sponsors and partners. Its sister event, Winter Wonderfest, takes place in August and offers further activities in Whanganui.