This year’s brand-new goanna sculpture will march alongside the much-loved brolgas that have graced the celebration for years. Brolga in parade pictured in 2024.
Lions Park is set to come alive this weekend as the biennial River Arts Festival brings a full day of free family entertainment, music, and creative celebration to our community.
With an action-packed program designed for all ages, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Festivities kick off at 9:00am with a vibrant performance by the town band right on Bates Bridge, alongside the opening of the festival markets. To make the most of the site, Bates Bridge will be closed to traffic all day, allowing visitors to safely explore the stalls and wander across to Wheogo Park, which has been transformed into a dedicated Wellbeing Space.
Throughout the entire day, the festival grounds will feature continuous live music and hands-on art activities. Families can pack a lunch or grab a bite from the local market stalls or food vendors, and join us for a giant community picnic at 12:00noon when The Hometown Boys take the stage.
The energy amps up at 3:00pm when popular local group Dirty Dark Horses takes the stage. At the same time, free lantern-making workshops begin with Phil Relf from Ikara Celebratory Events. Community members are invited to drop in and create something incredible to carry in the evening’s main event: the magical lantern parade at dusk. This year’s parade will showcase a brand-new goanna sculpture taking pride of place.
Gather your family, bring a picnic blanket, and celebrate the heart of our creative community this weekend!