The 2025 Benalla Street Art Festival has been a huge success, with locals and visitors alike celebrating the creativity and energy that transformed the streets of Benalla from 11 to 13 April. Over the three-day event, 10 talented artists brought colour and vibrancy to Benalla, turning blank walls into stunning artworks admired by thousands.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn praised the festival’s ability to showcase Benalla Rural City as a vibrant hub for creativity and community spirit.
“The Benalla Street Art Festival has once again highlighted the incredible artistic talent we have in this country. These works add to our open-air gallery of more than 80 pieces, attracting visitors from across Australia and injecting energy and excitement into our streets,” said Cr Hearn.
The 2025 Benalla Street Art Festival featured a variety of attractions to provide something for everyone. Families enjoyed the dedicated Kidz Zone at the Benalla Splash Park, while discerning art lovers explored the exhibitions, performances, and a vibrant Festival Lounge at the Benalla Art Gallery. Renowned local artist Gus Leunig also painted live at the gallery throughout the weekend, captivating onlookers as he brought his work to life.
The Festival Hub at The Shed was a standout highlight, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors to gather. Guests enjoyed delicious woodfire pizza and beverages by Bridge Road Brewers, accompanied by live music that added to the festive atmosphere.
The event boasted a stellar artist lineup, including Adnate, Aurora Campbell, Creature Creature, Drez, Gus Leunig, HWJ, MEGGS, Spencer Harrison, and Yan Yan Candy Ng, with the curated vision of Eddie Zammit. These talented artists left a lasting impression on Benalla, turning the town’s walls into an inspired collection of murals.
The festival drew attendees from near and far, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the town. While a final count on crowd numbers is yet to be announced, the streets were humming with activity and organisers estimate the visitor numbers to be in the tens of thousands.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming response. From families and art enthusiasts to travellers exploring our region, the community really came together to celebrate,” Benalla Art Gallery Director and festival spokesperson Eric Nash said on Monday.
Local businesses thrived as visitors immersed themselves in the vibrant energy of the festival. Many reported increased trade during one of the town’s most dynamic weekends of the year.
“The festival has grown to become a key cultural event for Benalla, and its success wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of the artists, event curator, organisers, volunteers, and the broader community,” said Mr Nash.
“It’s events like these that strengthen the fabric of our city and position Benalla as a must-see destination for art and culture.”
Special thanks go to presenting partner Visit Victoria, all sponsors, and the hardworking volunteers who ensured the festival’s success. Their efforts and commitment were crucial in making this event a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and community.
Benalla Rural City Council extends its heartfelt thanks to all involved in making the 2025 Street Art Festival such a tremendous success and looks forward to continuing this tradition of fostering creativity and connection for years to come.
All photos by official event photographer, James Bugg.
