EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

It is not surprising that a region so rich in creativity and spirit is home to a diverse and colourful array of festivals and events. No cultural stone has been left unturned as you can get your artistic and inspirational fill from one of the many events on offer throughout the year. The sheer beauty of the area and the laid back attitude of the locals make it the perfect destination to recharge and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Unique to the area are the foundation of these events that revolve around supporting local community while being respectful of its inhabitants and the world around them. Whether it's a small community based event or one that has an international following there is a unity and supportive spirit that is particular to the region. Musicians, painters, surfers, yoga instructors, athletes, writers, and healers are just a few of the passionate and inspirational people sharing their cultural talents and visions.

  • BLUES AND ROOTS FESTIVAL

    Otherwise known as Bluesfest this annual music festival is the home of Australian Blues and Roots music. Held for five days over the Easter long weekend it is a major destination for international and local acts. Held on Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm five minutes north of Byron Bay it's a festival made for the soulful music lover. With acts such as Ben Harper, Chris Issak and Iggy Pop returning to the line up time and time again its not surprising 17,500 visitors per day make their way to the scenic grounds.
    More info: www.bluesfest.com.au

  • BYRON BAY WRITERS FESTIVAL

    Holding one of Australia's premier literary events in one of Australia's most beautiful towns has made it impossible for authors and the likes to turn down an invitation to a winters weekend of intelligent and passionate discussion. This has become evident in the now 120 featured readers, writers and thinkers from around the world that descend on Byron Bay during this three day festival. Join a dynamic mix of literary talent across live radio broadcasts, readings, panel discussions, book signings, conversations, films, literary food events and book launches.
    More info: www.byronbaywritersfestival.com.au

  • SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS

    This is Australia's mac daddy of music festivals. Join the crowds in a cool kid migration to North Byron Parklands where the extrodinary line up has put this festival on the world map. With an alternate and laidback coastal vibe signature to Byron Bay this has become a highly anticipated annual event for both the music lover and the musician. A modern day Woodstock, live music from different genres is played continuously from different stages over the three days.
    More info: www.splendourinthegrass.com

  • BYRON BAY OCEAN SWIM

    Strong in community spirit and goodness of heart the Byron Bay Ocean Swim has become renowned for it's charitable results. The Winter Whales Ocean Swim Classic first held in 1988 has been running annually ever since. A 2km swim that started out with a small number of ocean swimmers "swimming for charity" now has an impressive 1,700 following. Alternately dip your toes for fun with the 800metre mini swim where enjoying the ocean is key.
    More info: www.byronbayoceanswimclassic.com.au

  • BYRON BAY TRIATHLON

    This is a full weekend of activities focused on surf, sand and sport in a stunning location. Attractive on an international level and the last race on the QLD/NSW calendar means for a fun weekend. Known as one of the friendliest triathlons, competitors enjoy a 1.5km ocean swim in turquoise blue waters, a 40km scenic cycle past cane fields, rainforest and rolling farmlands finishing with a picturesque run through the streets and under the Byron Bay lighthouse.
    More info: www.byronbaytri.com.au

  • BYRON BAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

    What started out as a local event supporting and showcasing the growing number of filmmakers in the region and providing a platform for Australian film, quickly turned into an international affair. The now ten-day festival is a captivating one with an amazing and diverse range of events and films hosted by a multicultural creative community in a breathtaking location. Experience the magic of screen culture and film genres from all corners of the globe through workshops, beachside screenings, family films and red carpet events. More info: www.bbff.com.au

  • BANGALOW BILLY CART DERBY

    People get your engines ready for the annual Bangalow Billycart Derby. A day that starts with a blessing from the local priest, this is a beautiful example of community spirit where age and social status have no place. Join hundreds of spectators cheering alongside hay bales or join the 240 or so competitors in a homegrown billycart creation where winning doesn't really matter. The real prizes are the funds raised for local charities and good old fashion fun.
    More info: www.bangalowbillycart.com.au

  • BYRON BAY SURF FESTIVAL

    The Byron Bay Surf festival is a celebration of the creativity that surfing inspires and the artistic folk that surround it. A non-competitive three day event that pays homage to the heritage and history of surfing while celebrating it's creative culture such as art, music, film, literature, lifestyle, photography, design and sustainability. Byron Bay is the perfect place to experience one of the worlds most inspirational lifestyles and magical past times.
    More info: www.byronbaysurffestival.com