Blackwood Valley National Events
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Welcome to Blackwood Valley, Western Australia, where every year, people from all corners of the world come to experience a variety of events that are close to their hearts. These events are not just about entertainment and fun, but they also offer visitors a chance to learn about the rich heritage of this beautiful region and its people. Here are some of the most recognized annual events that you can expect to witness in and around Blackwood Valley:
1. Blackwood Marathon
The Blackwood Marathon is a popular annual event that attracts athletes from across Western Australia and beyond. The marathon is held on the first weekend of May every year and is a grueling 42.2 km race that starts in the town of Nannup and finishes in the town of Balingup. The marathon is known for its challenging terrain, which includes hills, river crossings, and rugged bush trails.
2. Bridgetown Blues Festival
The Bridgetown Blues Festival is one of the premier music events in Western Australia, drawing blues enthusiasts from around the world. The festival is held over three days in November and brings together an exciting lineup of local and international blues musicians. The festival also offers a range of food and drink options, as well as an arts and crafts market.
3. Donnybrook Apple Festival
The Donnybrook Apple Festival is another popular event that takes place in the Blackwood Valley region. Held annually in April, this festival celebrates the region's apple-growing heritage and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival features apple-themed activities such as apple pie contests, apple peeling competitions, and cider tastings, as well as live music, carnival rides, and market stalls selling locally-made produce.
4. Nannup Flower & Garden Festival
The Nannup Flower & Garden Festival is a beautiful celebration of nature held every year in August. The festival showcases the region's stunning gardens and flower displays, with events including garden tours, flower arranging workshops, guest speakers, and art exhibits. The festival also features live music, local food and wine, and a range of market stalls selling everything from organic produce to handmade crafts.
5. Blackwood Valley Wine Show & Awards
Wine lovers should not miss the Blackwood Valley Wine Show & Awards, held annually in September. The show features tastings from more than 40 local wineries, as well as judging competitions across various categories, including red wine, white wine, and sparkling wine. The event also includes wine education sessions and a gala dinner with live entertainment.
6. Balingup Medieval Carnivale
The Balingup Medieval Carnivale is a unique event that takes visitors back in time to the medieval era. The event features jousting tournaments, reenactments, and a bustling medieval market, where visitors can sample traditional food and wine and purchase handcrafted goods. The carnivale is held in August each year and attracts history enthusiasts and families alike.
7. Blackwood Festival of Music & Culture
The Blackwood Festival of Music & Culture is an annual three-day event held in January that celebrates the region's diverse arts and culture scene. The festival features a range of live music performances, art exhibitions, poetry readings, and film screenings, as well as interactive workshops and activities for all ages. The festival is a celebration of creativity and community, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.
Blackwood Valley and its surrounding towns are home to a diverse range of nationally and globally recognized annual events that attract visitors from all over the world. From marathons and music festivals to apple-themed events and medieval carnivals, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and vibrant region of Western Australia.