Greater Bendigo can look forward to an exciting line up of events in 2025 including Bendigo Art Gallery's Frida Kahlo: In her own image exclusive blockbuster exhibition, shows, festivals, sporting competitions and major events to entertain and stimulate the local visitor economy.
City of Greater Bendigo Acting Director Strategy and Growth Anthony Petherbridge said the events calendar was shaping up well with fantastic events on offer.
"Bendigo Art Gallery will present the extraordinary Frida Kahlo: In her own image which has never been seen in Australia before and is an intimate portrayal of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century," Mr Petherbridge said.
"This exclusive exhibition from March 15 to July 13 is coming direct from Mexico's famous Museo Frida Kahlo and tickets are now available, so don't miss out visiting this remarkable collection.
"The City's Summer in the Parks program has a great range of free or low-cost events and activities until the end of February including outdoor cinema screenings, various Australia Day community events, free events in Hargreaves Mall, Music in the Park and much more.
"Other great events returning include the popular Lost Trades Fair, which attracts over 20,000 visitors, on the Labour Day long weekend (March 8-10) at Bendigo Racecourse showcasing amazing crafts and skills. Australia's biggest barbeque festival Meatstock returns on March 14 and 15 at Bendigo Showgrounds.
"Favourite festivals also return, including the Bendigo Easter Festival, which remains one of the most popular homegrown events. A packed program of major cultural attractions, parades, carnival and entertainment will take place over three days from Good Friday to Easter Sunday (April 18-20). Smaller community events will take place on Easter Monday, April 21.
"Returning in 2025 as well are the Heathcote Harvest Festival (March 9) and the Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival (April 5). The Bendigo Writers Festival will have a feast of writing and storytelling from August 15-17 with an exciting program building on its standout success in 2024.
"The City's magnificent theatres will present some of Australia's best performers including The Hoodoo Gurus (January 22), Amy Shark (February 13), Sydney Dance Company (May 7), Dick & Angel's Forever Home (July 18) and Bangarra Dance Theatre (October 3 and 4).
"With our impressive sporting facilities, we continue to secure major sporting competitions being held over several days and during weekends. These high-profile sporting events significantly boost our local economy with visitors booking accommodation, shopping and dining out in Greater Bendigo. Bendigo Spirit at Red Energy Arena will host several WNBL games and the Bendigo Junior Classic.
"Our region continues to win awards, including a silver in the national Top Tourism Awards last September in recognition of our strong commitment to deliver the very best experiences and events over the year. The great line up in 2025 will help stimulate our visitor economy and support local businesses. We want visitors to stay longer, shop and dine, and have a terrific time here in Greater Bendigo."
