Here we go again; its our time to shine. Our city is alive with the hustle and bustle of thousands of visitors.
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The smell of fresh produce on steamy, hot plates fills the air sending your taste buds into overdrive.
Then best of all, you can enjoy this enormous array of fine food with every variety of Tasmanian craft beer, local wine or even a gin!
Sitting under the umbrella of leaves with the sun filtering through the tree tops, it's almost impossible to comprehend this is our home and Festivale is our event.
It must be the biggest annual reunion of Tasmanians, because any one who has ever lived here returns on this weekend just to be part of the celebration of everything we are.
But wait, who is that grumbling in the background?
Is it possible someone has taken issue with an out door event that's gives local suppliers the chance to show off their wares and entertains locals and visitors alike in a safe environment?
Is it possible this great boost to the vibrancy of the city's culture, not to mention the economy, is not pleasing to all?
The music's too loud, the lines are too long, the ticket price is too high.
I even heard a mum complaining that the children's playground was too busy this weekend so her kids can't go there.
Interesting that the tourists pouring in to Launceston have such a different opinion of things.
They comment on the fabulous line-up of Australian artists on show, they can't believe the quality and quantity of food and beverage stalls they can choose from and the ticket price doesn't even get a mention.
Why are we always so quick to speak negativity over the extraordinary opportunities we have here in our own backyard to experience a world class event?
We should be brimming with pride as we walk past our beautiful city park and see it swarming with happy faces.
If the music is too loud, you can buy ear plugs quite cheaply at hardware stores.
If you don't like lining up to eat, go to a local restaurant and order from the menu.
And you don't want to part with a few dollars to enjoy all that is on offer, then don't buy a ticket!
But stop grumbling.
Recognise the hard work and commitment of those in charge.
Recognise the hard work of the volunteers. Recognise the local stall holders hoping for bumper sales.
Late into the night when Festivale is done and dusted, all these people will be cleaning up the rubbish, pulling down the stalls, packing away hundreds of chairs - well after the grumblers have gone to bed with their ear plugs firmly in place.
