What's on in Bendigo

Bendigo, Victoria, is a vibrant city known for its exciting calendar of events that draw visitors year-round. From the iconic Bendigo Easter Festival, featuring colorful parades, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities, to the Bendigo Writers Festival, which brings together renowned authors and literary enthusiasts, Bendigo offers something for everyone.

Music lovers can enjoy the Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival, showcasing local and international talent across various venues. Food and wine enthusiasts will relish events like Bendigo Heritage Uncorked and the Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival, where they can sample regional produce and beverages. With a diverse range of festivals, cultural celebrations, and seasonal events, Bendigo provides endless opportunities to experience the city's rich community spirit and cultural diversity.

Bendigo Easter Festival

March or April

The Bendigo Easter Festival is the city's most iconic event, celebrated for over 150 years. Held annually over the Easter long weekend, this festival transforms Bendigo into a hub of excitement and activity. The festival is famous for its Gala Parade, featuring Sun Loong, the longest Imperial dragon in the Southern Hemisphere, along with other colorful floats, performers, and cultural displays. The festival also includes a wide range of activities such as live music, food stalls, markets, carnival rides, and the popular Awakening of the Dragon ceremony. It's a fantastic family-friendly event that showcases Bendigo's multicultural heritage and community spirit.

Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival

November

The Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival is a four-day event held every November, bringing together talented musicians from Australia and around the world. The festival features over 100 acts across various venues, including pubs, cafes, and outdoor stages throughout Bendigo's CBD. This grassroots festival is known for its relaxed vibe and diverse lineup, covering a range of genres from blues and roots to folk, jazz, and soul. The event also includes free family-friendly activities, music workshops, and jam sessions, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. For music lovers, this festival is a fantastic opportunity to discover new artists and enjoy live performances in unique settings.

Bendigo Writers Festival

August

Celebrating literature and the written word, the Bendigo Writers Festival is a major event in the city's cultural calendar, typically held in August. The festival attracts renowned authors, journalists, poets, and thought leaders from around Australia and beyond for a weekend of insightful discussions, workshops, and readings. With a packed schedule of panels, book signings, and storytelling sessions, the Bendigo Writers Festival is a must-attend event for book lovers, aspiring writers, and those who enjoy engaging with ideas and stories. The event is hosted at various venues in Bendigo's beautiful arts precinct, including the Capital Theatre and the Bendigo Bank Theatre.

Bendigo Heritage Uncorked

October

For wine enthusiasts, Bendigo Heritage Uncorked is an annual event that offers a unique opportunity to sample some of the best wines from the Bendigo region. Held in October, this self-guided wine and food tasting experience takes participants on a leisurely stroll through Bendigo's historic CBD, stopping at various heritage buildings and venues. At each stop, visitors can sample award-winning wines from local wineries paired with gourmet dishes crafted by local chefs. The event also provides an opportunity to meet the winemakers and learn more about the region's rich viticultural history. It's a delightful day out for anyone who appreciates fine wine, food, and Bendigo's stunning architecture.

Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival

March

The Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival is a celebration of locally brewed craft beers and ciders, held every March in Bendigo's Tom Flood Sports Centre. The festival brings together a wide range of craft breweries and cideries from Bendigo and surrounding regions, offering visitors the chance to taste an extensive selection of unique and flavorful brews. In addition to the drinks, the festival features live music, food trucks, and entertainment, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere for all ages. Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for a great day out, this festival is a highlight on Bendigo's event calendar.

Bendigo Queer Film Festival

April

The Bendigo Queer Film Festival (BQFF) is one of Australia's longest-running regional queer film festivals, held annually in April. The festival showcases a diverse selection of films that explore LGBTQIA+ themes and stories, ranging from thought-provoking documentaries to heartwarming dramas and comedies. With film screenings, panel discussions, and social events, BQFF provides an inclusive space for both the queer community and allies to celebrate diversity, creativity, and storytelling. The festival is held at The Capital Theatre, providing an intimate and welcoming setting for festival-goers to connect and engage with the films and each other.

Bendigo Agricultural Show

October

A tradition dating back to the 1850s, the Bendigo Agricultural Show is a family-friendly event that celebrates the region's rural heritage and community spirit. Held annually in October at the Bendigo Showgrounds, the show features a wide range of agricultural displays, livestock competitions, arts and crafts exhibits, show rides, food stalls, and live entertainment. Highlights include the animal nursery, equestrian events, woodchopping competitions, and the vibrant fireworks display that lights up the sky at night. The Bendigo Agricultural Show is a fantastic event for families, offering a mix of fun, education, and community engagement.

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