Ballina

Annual Events to Observe in and Around Ballina, New South Wales

Ballina is a bustling town in New South Wales that is home to a range of exciting annual events that attract visitors from all over the country. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there is always something going on in Ballina. Here, we take a look at some of the nationally and globally recognised annual events that you might like to observe when visiting the town.

1) Ballina Prawn Festival
One of the most popular events in Ballina is the annual Prawn Festival. Held in late November each year, the festival celebrates the town's famous seafood industry with a range of food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music performances. Other attractions include the prawn peeling competition and the prawn-themed boat parade.

2) Ballina Country Music Festival
If you're a fan of country music, then the Ballina Country Music Festival is a must-visit event. Held over a weekend in September, the festival showcases some of the best local and national country musicians, as well as line dancing, bush poetry, and other fun activities.

3) Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival
Wine lovers won't want to miss the Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival, which takes place in June each year. This event is an opportunity to taste some of the best wines from the local region, paired with delicious food from local restaurants and producers. There are also cooking demonstrations, live music, and other entertainment on offer.

4) The Australian Festival of Chamber Music
For classical music enthusiasts, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) is a must-see event. Held in Townsville in July and August each year, the festival also holds satellite events in other locations around the country, including Ballina. The AFCM features performances by some of the world's most talented classical musicians, as well as workshops and forums.

5) Ballina Coastal Country Music Festival
Another country music festival that visitors to Ballina might enjoy is the Ballina Coastal Country Music Festival, held in July each year. The festival has a relaxed vibe, with free concerts on the beach, buskers, line dancing, and other fun activities. There are also daytime and evening performances by local musicians and visiting artists.

6) The Brunswick Fish and Chips Festival
While not strictly in Ballina, the Brunswick Fish and Chips Festival is a short drive away and well worth the visit for seafood lovers. Held in November each year, the festival celebrates the local fishing industry with delicious food stalls, live music, and other entertainment.

7) The Christmas Pudding Dash
Finally, for a quirky and festive event, the Christmas Pudding Dash is a must-attend. Held on Christmas Day each year, participants dress up in festive costumes and run or walk a 5 km course around Ballina's town centre. Everyone who participates receives a Christmas pudding, and there are prizes for the best-dressed.

In Conclusion
These are just some of the nationally and globally-recognised events that visitors to Ballina might like to observe. With so many exciting festivals and celebrations taking place throughout the year, Ballina is a destination that is sure to keep visitors entertained and engaged.