The Bendigo Easter Festival will return from 3-6 April 2026, bringing four packed days of parades, performances, markets and family friendly events to the heart of the city. One of Australia’s longest running community festivals, the annual event is expected to again draw large crowds of locals and visitors across the Easter long weekend.
This year’s festival also marks a significant milestone, celebrating 100 years of the Bendigo Easter Fair Society. Established in 1926, the volunteer-led group has helped shape the festival into the much-loved event it is today. To mark the centenary, a special exhibition titled 100 Years of the Bendigo Easter Fair Society – Custodians of the Grand Fair will be on display at the Living Arts Space at the Bendigo Visitor Centre from April 2 to May 2.
A familiar face from past festivals will also return, with the six-metre-tall fibreglass Kewpie doll Violet making a nostalgic appearance. The figure, first seen in Bendigo parades in the early 2000s, will be temporarily installed in Rosalind Park.
Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the festival continued to be a highlight of the local calendar.
“It’s going to be exciting to see so much colour and vibrancy this year. The program features fantastic cultural performances celebrating Bendigo’s Chinese heritage, dazzling parades, bustling market days and an abundance of family entertainment,” Cr Prince said.
Major drawcards across the weekend include the Awakening of the Dragon celebrations, the La Trobe University Torchlight Procession and fireworks, the Sherridon Homes Gala Parade and the return of Carnival Central. Rosalind Park will act as the festival hub, hosting live music, food stalls, children’s entertainment and hands-on activities throughout the weekend.
Community-run events, markets and cultural performances will take place across the city from Good Friday through to Easter Monday. The full program is available at the Bendigo Easter Festival website.
