The Holsym Creative Arts & Wellness Festival was devised by Angela Connell, of Alexandra, as a "mini-Womad" that would be a positive event during a difficult time, she said.
"I basically wanted to provide an opportunity to uplift, to provide some hope and positivity."
Indoor workshops included astrology, theatresports, healing sound and hip-hop for adult beginners.
Outdoor events at Centennial Park included open mic poetry, kokedama (moss ball) planting, music, dance and children’s trapeze.
"I’m a creative person who saw the benefit of creativity in the community to uplift wellness."
Ms Connell was originally thinking the festival might launch in one or two years, but with the Covid-19 pandemic, she decided it was needed now.
"Doing it this year was more in response to the traumatic year that we have all had."
This put more pressure on her but she was glad she had persevered.
Ms Connell planned for about 100 people, using both her yoga and wellness studio on MacDonald St and Centennial Park for a modest first festival.
Her long-term vision was a festival that could become something bigger.
"Perhaps ... camping on a property where it is all sustainable."
