The 2026 Benalla Festival returns from Saturday, October 31 to Sunday, November 8, with a packed program of events across Benalla Rural City.
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From Halloween fun and fireworks to film, music and history, there is something for everyone.
Benalla Festival chair and Benalla Rural City Deputy Mayor Justin King said the festival was a chance for everyone to get out, have fun and enjoy what made our region special.
“The festival is about people coming together,” Cr King said.
“You can catch up with friends, bring the kids along or try something new.
“Most events are free or low cost, so there’s no excuse not to get involved.”
The festival kicks off with a free, family-friendly Halloween Party at Benalla Golf Club on Saturday, October 31 from 4.30pm to 7.30pm.
There will be face painting, a jumping castle, trick or treating and prizes for the best dressed kids and adults.
So, dig out your favourite costume and join the fun.
On Monday, November 2, Diwali @ the Mural lights up Benalla’s Ceramic Mural from 6pm to 9.30pm.
Presented by the Benalla Migrants Association, the free Festival of Lights celebration returns for its fourth year and finishes with a fireworks finale.
Garden lovers can enjoy the Open Gardens on Sunday, November 1 from 10am to 4pm, when three local homes open their private gardens to the public.
Entry is $5 per garden, with all funds supporting the Tomorrow Today Foundation.
For those who love local history, the Twilight Cemetery Historical Walks share stories about the famous and infamous people buried in the Benalla Cemetery and the part they played in shaping our community.
Free walks run from 6pm to 7pm on Tuesday, November 3, Thursday, November 5 and Sunday, November 8.
Sturdy shoes and a torch are recommended.
Bookings are essential via the Benalla Visitor Information Centre on 57621749.
The festival’s premier event, Benalla by the Lake, takes over the Lake Benalla foreshore on Saturday, November 7 from 3.30pm to 9.30pm.
There’ll be family-friendly entertainment, street food and drinks, with live music on the main stage all afternoon and evening.
The night ends with a spectacular fireworks display over the lake.
Earlier in the afternoon, Tomorrow Today’s Full Impact Squad will host Sideshow Alley from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.
A gold coin donation is appreciated, with all funds going to the Benalla Homelessness Response Group.
Little ones aged one to five can also join Mini Monets from 3pm to 5pm, painting a portrait of someone special on their own mini canvas.
In fact, Saturday, November 7 is full of things to do, such as Benalla Soars: A Festival of Flight, which runs from 10am to 2.30pm at the Gliding Club of Victoria.
Families and anyone curious about gliding can try a virtual flight simulator, meet real glider pilots and instructors and enter competitions to win prizes.
Entry is free.
Creative types can drop in to the Collage Workshop with Broken River Painters at BARC Hut 11 from 10am to noon or 1pm to 3pm.
Using recycled books and magazines, you can make your own visual stories.
Entry is $5 and the workshop suits adults aged 18 and over of all skill levels.
The festival wraps up on Sunday, November 8 with a full day of events.
The annual Day in the Gardens Market runs from 9am to 3pm at the Benalla Botanic Gardens, with local artisans, food vendors and community groups showcasing their wares.
Fashion fans can head to The Pre-loved Market at Benalla Town Hall from 1pm to 3pm.
This free pop-up gives pre-loved clothing and accessories a new home, and you might just find your next favourite outfit.
Film lovers won’t want to miss the 12th National and International Benalla Short Film Festival at Benalla Cinema.
The festival showcases new and established filmmakers from Australia and around the world.
Krista Vendy of Neighbours fame and Bruce Hunt-Hughes from The Portable Door will judge and announce the winners.
Tickets start from $15 and screenings are suitable for audiences aged 15 and over.
Out at Swanpool Hall, the Australian Welsh Male Choir will perform a concert of popular songs from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.
Tickets are $25 per person, with tea and coffee available.
“There’s a real mix this year, from fireworks and film to gardens and history,” Cr King said.
“Whether you’ve lived here all your life or you’re just visiting, come along and enjoy everything our region has to offer.
“Every time you get involved, you’re also helping our local community groups who work so hard to make it all happen.”
Event highlights
Community and Culture
- Halloween Party – Kick off the festival in spooky style with this family favourite event.
- Migrant Camp Open Day – Step back in time and explore Benalla’s unique migrant history.
- Bonegilla – The Migrants’ Journey – A moving presentation on the journeys of postwar migrants.
- Diwali @ the Mural – Celebrate the Festival of Lights with the community.
- Saluting Service Courage and Resilience photography exhibition – A powerful tribute to those who serve.
Markets and open days
- Samaria Rose Farm Open Day – Wander through blooming rose gardens.
- Devenish Market – Browse local produce and handmade goods.
- Open Gardens – Discover some of Benalla’s most beautiful private gardens.
- Day in the Gardens Market – Shopping and strolling combined.
- The Pre-loved Market – Find a bargain and shop sustainably.
- Garage Sale Trail – Hunt for treasures across multiple locations.
Arts and entertainment
- Swanpool Cinema Movie and Afternoon Tea – Catch a film and enjoy a cuppa.
- Rehearsal in the Rotunda – A charming outdoor performance experience.
- Paint Your Partner – A fun and creative date-night activity.
- Goldhammer Gold Digger RnB Night – Dance the night away to live music.
- Australian Welsh Male Choir Concert – Experience the power of choral music.
- 12th National and International Benalla Short Film Festival – Celebrating the best in short filmmaking.
- Broken River Painters Art Show – Local artists showcase their work.
- Broken River Potters Open Days and Sale – Browse and buy beautiful handmade pottery.
- Collage Workshop – Get creative in this hands-on session.