The 2026 Benalla Festival is almost here, and this year's program is bursting with fun, colour and connection.
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Running from Saturday, October 31 to Sunday, November 8, the festival brings together nine days of events across Benalla Rural City.
What makes the Benalla Festival special is the people behind it.
Every event is run by a local club, community group or resident who wants to share something they love.
From market stalls and open gardens to music, history and fireworks, it’s the community putting on a show for the community.
Benalla Festival chair and Deputy Mayor Justin King said the festival was a great reminder of what our region does best.
"This festival is built by locals. It's the gliding club, the garden owners, the market stallholders and the volunteers who contribute their enthusiasm, expertise and energy to make it all happen," Cr King said.
"Most events are free or cheap, so you don't need deep pockets to join in. Just turn up, say hi and enjoy yourself."
The festival kicks off with a free, family-friendly Halloween Party at Benalla Golf Club on Saturday, October 31 from 4.30pm-7.30pm.
Expect face painting, a jumping castle, trick or treating and prizes for the best dressed kids and adults.
That same weekend, Samaria Rose Farm in Moorngag opens its gates from 10am-3pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
Wander through 2000 Damask rose bushes in bloom and enjoy homemade scones with tea or coffee. Entry is free.
On Sunday, November 1, the Devenish Market brings its fun family feel to Bicentennial Park from 9am-1pm.
Stick around for the third annual Inflatable Animal Race at 11am, where costumed racers chase line honours.
Everyone is welcome to have a go.
Back in Benalla, some green-thumbed residents are opening their private gardens to the public from 10am-4pm, with all funds raised going to support the Tomorrow Today Foundation. Entry is $5 per garden.
On Monday, November 2, the Benalla Migrants Association presents Diwali @ the Mural for the fourth year in a row.
This free celebration of the Festival of Lights runs from 6pm-9.30pm at the Ceramic Mural on Mair St and, to everyone’s delight, finishes with fireworks
The Tuesday, November 3 public holiday is the perfect excuse to pull up a chair and enjoy the company of your neighbours.
Room at the Table is hosting a free barbecue and board games day from 11am-4pm at the RATT Rooms, Gliding Club, 37 Samaria Rd.
History buffs can join a free Twilight Cemetery Historical Walk at Benalla Cemetery on Tuesday, November 3, Thursday, November 5 or Sunday, November 8, from 6pm-7pm.
Hear stories about the famous and infamous people who helped shape Benalla.
Wear some sturdy shoes and bring a torch, with bookings essential via the Benalla Visitor Information Centre.
Saturday, November 7 is the big day on the calendar.
Benalla Soars: A Festival of Flight starts things off at the Gliding Club of Victoria from 10am-2.30pm, with a flight simulator, real glider pilots to chat with and prizes to be won. Entry is free.
Then head down to the Lake Benalla foreshore for Benalla by the Lake from 3.30pm-9.30pm.
This free festival favourite has live music, street food, drinks and family entertainment, all wrapped up with a fabulous fireworks finale.
Tomorrow Today's Full Impact Squad will also run Sideshow Alley from 3.30pm-5.30pm, raising money for the Benalla Homelessness Response Group.
The festival wraps up on Sunday, November 8 with plenty to choose from.
The annual Day in the Gardens Market fills the Benalla Botanic Gardens with local artisans, food and community groups from 9am-3pm.
Fashion fans can grab a bargain at the free Pre-loved Market at Benalla Town Hall from 1pm-3pm.
Film lovers can catch the 12th National and International Benalla Short Film Festival at Benalla Cinema, with tickets from $15.
Out at Swanpool Hall, the Australian Welsh Male Choir performs from 1.30pm-4.30pm, with tickets $25 per person.
There is even more on the program, including art and pottery shows, a ukulele class for beginners, the Garage Sale Trail and a moving Remembrance Day service in Devenish.
"There really is something for everyone" Cr King said.
“Bring the kids, bring your mum, bring the neighbours.
"Coming along, enjoy the day out and show your support for the locals who have brought the festival to life. It's a celebration created by locals, for locals."
For the full program visit www.benallafestival.com.au