Benalla is set to come alive for the second weekend of the 2025 Benalla Festival, as the celebration moves from the region’s charming rural villages to the township itself. With a packed program of events across the town, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Benalla Rural City Council Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Benalla Festival Advisory Committee, Cr Justin King said the second weekend captures everything Benalla has to offer and the true spirit of the festival.
“Weekend two is all about bringing the community together in Benalla township,” Cr King said.
“From live music and open gardens to spectacular fireworks, there’s a wonderful mix of events for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy.”
The festival’s premier event, Benalla by the Lake, is an afternoon and evening of family-friendly entertainment set against the stunning Lake Benalla foreshore. Visitors can enjoy live music on the main stage, a wide variety of food and beverage stalls, board games with Room at the Table, and the Side Show Alley hosted by the Tomorrow Today Foundation’s Full Impact Squad.
The evening includes three jetpack shows and concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display over the lake, creating a truly memorable finale.
The festival also celebrates culture and creativity across the town. Diwali @ the Mural brings the Festival of Light and Colour to life with dance performances, laser light projections, fireworks, and children’s entertainment, while A Day in the Gardens Markets offers market stalls, live music, and delicious food set among the picturesque Benalla Botanical Gardens and Lake Benalla.
Local residents open their private gardens as part of the Open Gardens program, inviting visitors to explore beautiful spaces while supporting the Tomorrow Today Foundation.
For those interested in local history, the Twilight Cemetery Walk offers guided tours that share fascinating stories of the people who shaped the Benalla community. Music lovers can join Small Town Sing, a fun, high-energy evening where participants of all singing levels learn, rehearse, and perform a song together, creating an experience full of good vibes and harmony.
“This weekend showcases the vibrancy and creativity of our town. It’s a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to enjoy everything Benalla has to offer while supporting our community organisations,” Cr King added.
With so many exciting events happening across town, the Benalla Festival promises unforgettable experiences for all ages. For full details on all the event, including dates, times, and locations, visit www.benallafestival.com.au.