Media Release: Eaglehawk blooms, time to Harvest the hype
MEDIA RELEASE
16 February 2026
Eaglehawk blooms, time to Harvest the hype
Eaglehawk is gearing up for a vibrant explosion of colour, creativity and community spirit as the much-loved Dahlia & Arts Festival returns from 20–21 March.
“We know the Dahlia & Arts Festival is a highlight on the local calendar, and we want this year’s event to be a true feast for the senses,” said Eaglehawk Festivals Inc. President, Reece Hendy.
The 2026 program celebrates everything ‘harvest’, featuring the Gala Street Parade, spectacular Dahlia displays, the Schools Relay, art shows, the Eaglebald Portrait Prize, the Harvest Scarecrow Competition, the Canterbury Park Gala Fair & Market, the Free Sunday Family Day and more.
Local traders and businesses are being called on to embrace the Harvest theme by transforming shopfronts with rustic charm, autumn warmth, pumpkins, scarecrows, seasonal produce and bursts of harvest colour.
“Each display helps create a festive atmosphere that draws visitors through every part of town,” Reece said.
Businesses are encouraged to spill onto the footpath and street to create welcoming, people-first spaces, while community groups are invited to join the parade, host a stall, run an activity or perform.
“The festival is about more than flowers and art, it’s about community pride and connection, and an opportunity to be part of something bigger and share what you do with others.
Eaglehawk Festivals Inc. is seeking Bendigo-based creatives, performers and groups to help bring the streets alive during road closures and pre-parade activations.
“We’re keen to hear ideas that will draw visitors into town earlier in the day, and whether it’s music, art, performance or something unexpected, we’re open to creative conversations.
“Local businesses are encouraged to host demonstrations, tastings, workshops or special promotions to showcase local skills, produce and creativity throughout the festival weekend.
“We want people from across Bendigo and beyond to feel welcome in Eaglehawk, because this festival belongs to everyone and becomes more memorable with the energy and creativity we bring together,” Reece said.
More information: www.eaglehawkfestivals.com.au