Grafton Events Calendar Festivals Markets and Local Activities

Jacaranda Festival

October

The Jacaranda Festival is undoubtedly the most famous and beloved event in Grafton, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Held annually in late October to early November, this festival celebrates the stunning purple blooms of the town's jacaranda trees, which line the streets of Grafton. Founded in 1934, the Jacaranda Festival is the longest-running floral festival in Australia and is a hallmark of the region's identity.

• Street Parades: The streets of Grafton come alive with colorful floats, marching bands, and dance performances.
• Jacaranda Queen and Princess Pageant: This traditional event crowns the Jacaranda Queen, a local young woman who represents Grafton during the festivities.
• Markets and Stalls: Local vendors set up stalls offering arts, crafts, and delicious food.
• Concerts and Live Performances: The festival features a range of musical performances, from local bands to large-scale concerts.
• Fireworks Display: The festival usually concludes with a spectacular fireworks show.

The Jacaranda Festival is not only a celebration of the town's beautiful trees but also a reflection of the community spirit that makes Grafton a warm and welcoming place.

Grafton Show

April

Held every year in late April, the Grafton Show is a traditional agricultural show that has been an integral part of the community for over 150 years. This family-friendly event showcases the region's rich agricultural heritage and is a fun mix of livestock competitions, equestrian events, and rural displays.

Some highlights of the Grafton Show include:

• Livestock Competitions: Farmers from across the region present their best cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry.
• Equestrian Events: The show features competitive horse events, including show jumping and dressage.
• Carnival Rides and Games: Kids and adults alike can enjoy a range of amusement rides and carnival games.
• Exhibitions and Workshops: From farm machinery displays to traditional craft demonstrations, there's something for everyone to learn and enjoy.
• Food and Drink Stalls: Local vendors offer a variety of food, from classic Aussie favorites to more gourmet options.

The Grafton Show provides a great opportunity for visitors to experience the agricultural backbone of the Clarence Valley region while enjoying a festive day out.

Clarence River Arts Festival

May

The Clarence River Arts Festival is an annual celebration of the arts, held in May, that attracts artists and art lovers from across the region. Hosted by the Lower Clarence Arts and Crafts Association, the festival features exhibitions, workshops, and market stalls that showcase the talents of local and regional artists.

The festival includes:

• Art Exhibitions: Local galleries and venues display works by painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed-media artists.
• Craft Markets: A variety of handcrafted goods, including jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and woodwork, are available for purchase.
• Workshops and Demonstrations: Visitors can participate in hands-on art and craft workshops led by experienced artists.
• Live Entertainment: The festival often includes live music and performances to entertain guests while they explore the market and exhibitions.

This festival is a wonderful way to experience the creative heart of the Clarence Valley and to support local artists and makers.

Bridge to Bridge Ski Classic

October

The Bridge to Bridge Ski Classic is one of the most exciting sporting events in the region, attracting water sports enthusiasts from all over Australia. Held annually in October, this high-speed water ski race takes place along the scenic Clarence River, covering a distance between the Harwood Bridge and the Grafton Bridge.

The event features:

• Competitive Ski Racing: Some of the country's top water skiers compete in this thrilling race, with boats reaching impressive speeds.
• Spectator Activities: Along the riverbanks, spectators can enjoy a variety of activities, including food stalls, live entertainment, and family-friendly events.
• Celebrations: The event concludes with an awards ceremony and celebrations to honor the winners and participants.

For adrenaline junkies and water sports fans, the Bridge to Bridge Ski Classic is a must-see event.

Grafton Cycle Fest

September

For those who enjoy cycling and fitness, the Grafton Cycle Fest is a fantastic event that takes place annually in September. The festival includes competitive races, fun rides, and community events designed to encourage healthy living and physical activity.

Highlights of the Cycle Fest include:

• Competitive Races: Cyclists of all skill levels can participate in various races, including time trials, road races, and criterium races.
• Family-Friendly Rides: For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the festival offers casual rides for families and cyclists of all ages.
• Workshops and Demonstrations: Learn more about cycling safety, bike maintenance, and training from experienced professionals.
• Market Stalls and Food Trucks: The event features local vendors offering cycling gear, accessories, and food.

Grafton Cycle Fest promotes cycling as both a sport and a leisure activity while providing a fun day out for the whole family.

Grafton Cup Carnival

July

The Grafton Cup Carnival is a prestigious horse racing event held every July at the Grafton Racecourse. As one of the premier racing carnivals in regional Australia, the Grafton Cup attracts top trainers, jockeys, and horses from across the country.

Key events during the carnival include:

• The Grafton Cup: This is the main event, a thrilling race that takes place on the final day of the carnival.
• Ladies Day: Known for its fashion and flair, Ladies Day is a glamorous event where attendees showcase their best outfits and compete in Fashions on the Field competitions.
• Family Fun Day: This day of the carnival is dedicated to family-friendly activities, including games, rides, and live entertainment for kids.

The Grafton Cup Carnival is a highlight of the social calendar in the Clarence Valley and offers visitors the chance to experience the excitement of country racing at its finest.