From spooky movie-nights and hands-on adventures to games, music and free activities, the nine-day festival invites children and their families to connect, explore and celebrate the vibrant spirit of their community.
Benalla Rural City Council deputy mayor and Benalla Festival chair Justin King said the festival was a celebration of community, with a special focus on children and families.
“From toddlers to teens, the program includes something for every age group — whether it’s creative play for the under-fives, games and entertainment for primary-aged kids, or dedicated youth events for those aged 12 to 19,” he said.
“It’s exciting to see so many festival events designed for young people and families — they’re at the heart of our community and the future of our region.”
The Benalla Festival kicks off on Friday, October 31 with a free, family-friendly evening at the Benalla Cinema and Visitor Information Centre.
There will be live music, a community barbecue and a screening of the family-friendly Halloween film Hocus Pocus.
Throughout the nine-day festival, people aged 12 to 19 can enjoy signature events like the Op Shop Formal, a night of music, dancing and a free barbecue, and Boardgames session hosted by Room at The Table.
These events offer safe, welcoming spaces for young people to connect and socialise.
Cr King said there were also interactive sideshow alley games hosted by Tomorrow Today’s Full Impact Squad and an Open Community PEEP Session for children aged 0 to 5 to sing, rhyme and participate in creative play.
The Gliding Discovery Day at Benalla Airfield offers hands-on aviation experiences and competitions for all ages.
Benalla by the Lake is the ultimate youth-focused finale to the Benalla Festival, offering a free, family-friendly evening of fun on Saturday, November 8 held on the Lake Benalla foreshore.
Teens can enjoy live music and festival vibes, while younger kids can explore, play, and connect in a safe, inclusive environment.
Benalla by the Lake will also feature a Sensory Tent, hosted by the Social Inclusion Action Group, offering a calm space where patrons can decompress, explore sensory experiences and take a break from the festival buzz in a safe and supportive environment.
Benalla by the Lake closes the nine-day festival celebration, with a spectacular fireworks finale and a high-energy water jetpack stunt show, complete with LED suits, jet skis and live pyrotechnics.
Held from October 31 to November 9, the Benalla Festival offers a fantastic range of activities to keep young people and families entertained.
For more information about events and activities, visit benallafestival.com.au or follow the Benalla Festival on social media.
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