When you think of Easter, the vast majority of Australians will associate it with a long weekend filled with fun and time spent with family. Even though the majority of us enjoy the long weekend, we rarely consider the real reason behind the holiday. But you don’t have to be religious to understand what the holiday means to the thousands who flock to Bendigo annually to help celebrate the annual Easter Festival. Fun!
Since its inception in 1871 by Messrs Aspinal and Burnside to raise funds for the Sandhurst Benevolent Asylum and Hospital, the Bendigo Easter Fair (as it was known back then) has been held every year since, making it Australia’s longest ongoing festival. And due to the diverse collection of community groups contributing annually to create a culturally rich festival, it’s that unrestricted spirit of community that has helped cement its place in, not only central Victoria’s history, but Australia’s also.
Today, with an eclectic blend of music creating a vibrancy in and around Rosalind Park, there isn’t usually a sad face anywhere to be found. People of all ages roam and watch, look and listen to the vast array of attention grabbing attractions while following their noses to the culturally diverse food stands situated throughout Bendigo. So it’s hard not to find something that takes your fancy.
No matter how you celebrate Easter, one thing is for sure. It’s all about having fun with the people you love the most. And mix that up with exploring the region and being blown away by the assortment of things on offer. Thankfully, having fun isn’t a sin. And the Bendigo Easter Festival doesn’t disappoint.