Bendigo is a vibrant contemporary regional centre, boasting beautiful streets created from one of the world’s greatest gold rushes. Every visit will reveal new surprises and experiences.
Castlemaine boasts a remarkable community of artists, writers, actors and designers, who offer a host of galleries, theatres, festivals, bookshops and boutiques. It’s a theme that runs through nearby Maldon, Newstead and Harcourt.
Rich in history and opportunity... today’s visitors come to Maryborough and the surrounding villages for many reasons. Many come to wander through the lovely box-ironbark forests with their wildflowers, birds and superb display of Wattle in the spring. Others come to research family history and discover a connection to the Victorian gold rush, or to visit nearby wineries or explore markets, galleries and museums.
Take a deep breath… and travel along the meandering roads of the Loddon Valley. They start at untouched historic villages, weave their way up to spectacular views on granite strewn hilltops, through ancient forests, and then alongside wide flowing rivers and vast wetlands.
One of Australia's oldest and largest regional galleries presenting innovative exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of public programs and events. Our collection is extensive, with an emphasis on 19th century European art and Australian art from the 1800's, alongside a strong collection of contemporary Australian art.
Bendigo Venues and Events nurtures, develops, presents and celebrates performing arts and culture for Bendigo and central Victorian communities.
With the Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition now on at Bendigo Art Gallery, the whole city is going full Mexican fiesta mode—and you’re invited! Think bold colours, buzzing street activations, epic eats, lively entertainment, and endless fun. Soak up the vibes and explore a program packed with surprises.
Ready to fiesta? Here are our top must-do experiences to make it unforgettable!
Step into Frida’s world! First and foremost is a visit to the exhibition itself. Frida Kahlo: In her own image brings her iconic wardrobe, bold makeup, and personal treasures to Bendigo Art Gallery. Sealed away for 50 years in La Cassa Azul, these items reveal how she turned pain into power and fashion into art.
From dazzling outfits to striking self-portraits, this exclusive exhibition is a must see for art and fashion lovers alike.
Get ready, taco lovers! The ultimate Taco Trail has landed in the Bendigo region.
It's big, it’s fun, and it’s most certainly mouth watering! With 20+ locations serving up their best taco-inspired creations, your taste buds are in for the ultimate fiesta. From sweet to savoury delights, every bite is a flavour explosion!
But that’s not all - you get to vote for your favourite, and just by doing so, you could win a $1,000 gift voucher!
So, grab your crew, hit the trail, and let the taco adventure begin!
Shake, sip, and fiesta your way through Bendigo’s Mexican-inspired drinks! From zesty margaritas to mezcal mixes, this is your chance to taste, shake, and even make your own fiesta-inspired cocktails.
Take your pick from mastering the art of tequila at In Good Spirits, savouring a refreshing Mexican lager at The Shiraz Republic, or shaking things up at a Pisco & Tequila masterclass at Black Swan Bendigo.
Indulge in bold, flavour-packed creations from expert bartenders at top spots like Alium, Cantina, Mackenzie Quarters, Mexican Kitchen, and The Woodhouse – where every stop is a party in a glass!
So, grab your amigos, raise a salt-rimmed glass, and let the cocktail-fuelled fiesta begin!
Unleash your inner Frida Kahlo! Join a Frida-inspired flower crown workshop bursting with colour, creativity, and celebration. Design your own stunning crown using lush, vibrant blooms - whether you go bold and dramatic or soft and whimsical, you’ll walk away feeling like an absolute icon - just like Frida herself!
Botanical Lane’s Floral Headpiece Workshop is the perfect girls’ day out. This is your chance to let your inner artist bloom in a fun and unforgettable experience!
The streets have exploded with vibrant murals and stunning installations inspired by Frida’s iconic style and rich Mexican culture. Wander through laneways splashed with colour and floral vibes, waiting to be your next Instagram masterpiece. Strike a pose beneath larger-than-life murals, snap a selfie, or simply soak in the creative vibes.
Our must-visit photo hotspots?
The iconic Bendigo sign at the Piazza, the VIVA sign at the Conservatory Gardens, Bendigo Art Gallery’s façade, Chancery Lane’s fiesta mural, the Engine Room’s façade, Bendigo Visitor Centre, and the stunning arched windows of Bendigo Railway Station.
Are you looking for a fiesta like no other? Introducing La Música Tram!
Every month during Fiesta Bendigo, Bendigo Tramways are cranking up the fun with live Latin beats and a whole lot of vibrant energy. Jump aboard and enjoy the ride through Bendigo’s city centre with live music and even a tequila in hand. This is one party you don’t want to miss!
Tickets: Just $20 per person (drinks and snacks at bar prices – no BYO, sorry!)
Duration: 1.5 hours of pure fun
Times: 5:30pm – 7:00pm OR 8:00pm – 9:30pm
Where: Pick-up and drop-off at Alexandra Fountain
Ready to join the ride? The ultimate fiesta is waiting for you!
Click here for more info.
Ready to spice things up? Join Rosita from Old Church on the Hill for a Fiesta Bendigo exclusive as she takes you into the heart of authentic Mexican cuisine! With family recipes passed down from her mamá and abuelita, plus fresh insights from her summer in Mexico, Rosita will teach you how to cook up a mouth-watering three-course feast. This Fiesta Bendigo exclusive is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!
Click here for more info.
If you're looking for a range of exciting activities and experiences, Hargreaves Mall is the place to be throughout Fiesta Bendigo. Think street parties, live music that gets your feet moving, and a whirlwind of Frida Kahlo-inspired creativity. Some of the highlights include:
• The Fiesta Bendigo Street Party – 3rd May, 11am – 5pm
• Join a guided Frida self-portrait painting session – 5th April
• A variety of live music and entertainment
• Fiesta-style face painting and crafts
• Pop up films and more!
This is your chance to dance, paint, party, and experience Mexico in the heart of Bendigo - don’t miss the fiesta!
As you wander through Bendigo, don’t forget to pop into our local retail stores – they’re bursting with vibrant, Frida-inspired treasures. From bold prints and colourful accessories to fiesta-themed keepsakes, there’s something beautiful waiting to remind you of your time in this artful city. Whether you're after a statement piece or a fun little memento, these shops are full of personality and passion – just like Frida herself.
Favourites include Col Iron, Green Chair Vintage, Oliver Birch, The Wandering Dodo, and Uniquely Bendigo.
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The City of Greater Bendigo acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples as the traditional custodians of the lands across Bendigo.
We acknowledge and pay respect to their Elders past present and emerging.
