Bendigo is transforming into the city of love and light for its new activation campaign, Bonjour Bendigo, in celebration of Bendigo Art Gallery's exclusive exhibition Paris: Impressions of Life 1880-1925.
More than 40 themed experiences and events around the Bendigo region are being planned to coincide with the exhibition, which opens this Saturday March 16 (and runs until Sunday July 14).
Visitors and residents can revel in French food, art, culture, and unique experiences.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said Bendigo was the perfect place to host French-themed experiences and events because of the many similarities between the two cities.
"Even though Paris is on a much bigger scale, Greater Bendigo, and Paris both share a rich love of culture and heritage, elegant buildings and iconic landmarks, culinary and gastronomic delights, picture perfect streetscapes and a thriving cafe culture.
"With so much in common, Bonjour Bendigo is a wonderful way to capture the joy' of Paris this autumn and winter right here in Bendigo.
"Residents and visitors can make the most of a fantastic range of French-inspired events and experiences, together with themed food and drink menus celebrating the city of love and light.
"It is a red, white, and blue celebration with the tricolours of the French flag adding vibrancy around region. I want to thank Bendigo Tourism members who have jumped on board to be part of this exciting campaign, embracing the theme in many innovative ways.
"The BENDIGO letters at the piazza have been transformed with the Bonjour Bendigo branding. The conservatory will be lit in the French colours with red and white on the outside and blue on the inside, while one of Bendigo Heritage Attractions' iconic trams will feature the Bonjour Bendigo branding. Bunting and flower boxes in French colours will also add to the streetscape vibrancy.
"Hargreaves Mall will have a range of Paris-themed and free activations to keep the family entertained including acrobats, jugglers, French-themed music, and painting activities and much more during the exhibition period and the Easter holidays.
"This campaign will be a terrific way to encourage visitors to stay longer in our region and we are marketing Bendigo as a must-see destination over the coming months, particularly to Melbourne, regional Victoria, and Sydney.
"Our award-winning public activations, which celebrate blockbuster exhibitions at Bendigo Art Gallery, have become hugely popular over the years with residents and visitors, and they are now eagerly anticipated."
The City is working closely with Bendigo Tourism members who are celebrating the arrival of the exhibition with themed menus, fashion, accessories, desserts, cocktails, attractions, and experiences. Bendigo accommodation providers have also put together curated deals especially for visitors.
