Making the most of Byron Bay

Byron Bay Festivals & Events

Discover the heart and soul of Byron Bay through its lively and diverse festival and event scene. Byron Bay, a hub for world-class festivals, plays host to an array of events spanning music, film, food, fashion, art, and more. It’s not just a destination but a vibrant community where attendees and participants alike cherish the diverse and rich experiences on offer.

Bangalow Film Festival

6-16 March 2025

Delve into the cinematic world at the Bangalow Film Festival, where the charm of Bangalow meets global screen magic from 6th to 16th March 2025. This festival is any movie lover’s dream, showcasing a rich tapestry of films that range from eye-opening documentaries to world premieres and award-winning features. 

Enrich your experience with masterclasses, engaging Q&A sessions, and unexpected encounters with special guests. Set in the picturesque Northern Rivers, this event is not just about films; it’s a celebration of the arts, encouraging attendees to explore the local creative talents. Secure your spot and be part of an event where film, community, and creativity intertwine.

Huts at Byron Bay Bluesfest

Byron Bay Bluesfest

17-20 April 2025

Experience the soulful rhythms of Bluesfest, Australia’s leading blues music festival, from 17th April to 20 April 2025. Celebrate the final chapter of this iconic event at the scenic Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah, NSW. Bluesfest is a haven for music lovers, featuring a stellar lineup of artists across genres, from legendary blues musicians to contemporary stars. With performances to come from icons like Crowded House, Chaka Khan and Toto, Bluesfest promises an unforgettable musical journey.

Beyond the music, enjoy the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by site upgrades for an even better attendee experience. Surrounded by the idyllic settings of Mullumbimby and Byron Bay, Bluesfest offers the perfect blend of music, culture, and coastal vibes.

Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic

4 May 2025

As proud sponsors of the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic, we are pleased to share that they are coming back for 2025.  

On the first Sunday of May,  you’ll find the Byron Bay Winter Whales hosting an ocean swim – raising thousands of dollars for local charities in the process.

There are two events, the Byron Bay Property Sales Ocean Swim Classic, and the Byron Bay Chocolate Co Dash, these are divided into three different age categories in each event.  Click here to learn more!

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Three Runs Doing Byron Bay Triathlon

Byron Bay Triathlon

27 April 2025

Dive into the heart of Byron’s sporting scene with the Byron Bay Triathlon on the 27th April 2025. Revel in the unique blend of competition and celebration as athletes tackle the Olympic distance amidst breathtaking ocean views. With events including a Sprint, Kids races, and an Aquabike, there’s something for every fitness level. 

This greatly anticipated event not only challenges participants with its swim, cycle, and run components but also invites families to bask in Byron’s festive atmosphere. A perfect culmination to the triathlon season, it’s an experience that combines sporting prowess with the joy of community spirit.

Byron Bay Tango Festival

2-4 May 2025

Experience the passion of Argentine tango at the Byron Bay Tango Festival from 2nd to 4th May 2025. This immersive event offers workshops with world-class instructors Bruno Tombari and Rocio Lequio, energetic milongas, and live performances by the Festival Orquesta Típica and the Mendoza Quartet.

Dancers of all levels can refine their technique through expert-led sessions by day and use their new skills to dance the night away. A highlight of the festival is the annual Astor Piazzolla Concert, delivering a deeply moving musical experience. Whether you’re new to tango or a seasoned veteran, this festival is a must for lovers of dance.

Caper Byron Bay

2025 Dates TBC

Caper Byron Bay will be running again in 2025, this longstanding festival a vibrant showcase of the region’s rich cultural fabric and culinary excellence. This festival is a homage to Byron’s diverse community, offering an array of activities from restaurant takeovers and bush tucker tours to live music and immersive workshops. 

Delight in the creativity and natural beauty that define Byron, with events spread across its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, or nature lover, Caper Byron Bay provides a unique opportunity to engage with the local scene and celebrate the essence of this dynamic community.

The Love Lennox Festival

14 June 2025

June brings the Love Lennox Festival back to the shores of Seven Mile Beach. The main street of Lennox Head will be sectioned off, presenting the opportunity for local artists and businesses to set up stalls for the day. This family-friendly event offers activities for kids, live music as well as a host of artists and entertainers. We personally can’t wait for the cutest dog show!

Sunny day of people enjoying the Love Lennox Festival 2024

Byron Bay Comedy Festival

2025 Dates TBC

Get ready for a weekend of laugh inducing comedy as the Byron Bay Comedy Festival will return in 2025! This festival brings together some of Australia’s sharpest and most hilarious comedians for a weekend of wit, satire, and belly laughs.

Expect a carefully curated lineup featuring household names, emerging talent, and surprise acts, all delivering top-tier laughs in an intimate setting. More than just stand-up, the festival offers a mix of storytelling, improv, and offbeat performances, the perfect excuse to grab some mates, soak up the good vibes, and enjoy an unforgettable comedy experience.

Stay tuned for lineup announcements and details!

Brunswick Heads Old & Gold Festival

6 June 2025

Celebrating another year, the Old and Gold Festival returns on Saturday the sixth of June. This town-wide garage sale is anticipating more than 100 registered sellers, so vintage lovers and knick-knack enthusiasts should make this local event a high priority!

Splendour In The Grass Attendee at Byron Bay Festival

Byron Bay Music Festival

2025 Dates TBC

Mark your calendars for an unparalleled celebration of sound and spirit at the Byron Bay Music Festival, date yet to be announced. This festival stands out as a beacon of local talent, showcasing an all-ages lineup that captures the essence of Byron’s vibrant music scene.

It’s not just a festival; it’s a community gathering in the heart of Byron Bay, celebrating the rich tapestry of music that the area is renowned for. From the streets to the stages, experience the unique vibe and energy of Byron through the power of music.

Back To Brunswick Hot Rod Event

11-13 July 2025

The Back to Brunswick Hot Rod Run is revving up for another thrilling three-day event, a must-attend for all vintage car lovers. Expect live music, local auctions, impressive car shows, and trophy presentations that celebrate the best of classic automotive culture.

Mullum Roots Festival

12-13 July 2025

Celebrate the spirit of original music at the Mullum Roots Festival, a new addition to Mullumbimby’s vibrant cultural calendar. Over two days, more than 40 acts will perform across intimate local venues like the Civic Hall, Bowlo, Ex-Services Club, and Courthouse Hotel.

Wander from stage to stage, soaking up an eclectic mix of artists including The Waifs, Robert Forster, Emily Lubitz, and a strong lineup of Northern Rivers talent. With capped ticket numbers, this festival promises a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where music and community come together.

Byron Bay Writers Festival

Byron Bay Writers Festival

8-10 August 2025

The immensely popular Byron Bay’s writing festival returns for another year. Attracting attendees from all around Australia, this cultural exchange not only inspires future writers but also celebrates the power of language. 

Save the date for the 2025 edition of the festival, which will again play host to many of the world’s best writers, critical thinkers and like-minded individuals. Be inspired through diverse perspectives, open dialogue and meaningful stories at this yearly staple.

Byron Bay Surf Festival

14-17 August 2025

Celebrate all that surf culture has to offer at the Byron Bay Surf Festival. As well as amazing surf competitions, there are also a wide range of activities to get involved with, we particularly enjoy the surf-focused art displays.

North Coast Mud Trail

16-17 August 2025

Discover the vibrant world of ceramics at the North Coast Mud Trail, returning for its 13th year across Byron, Ballina and Lismore Shires. With 33 artists opening 22 studio doors, enjoy live demos, hands-on workshops, and the chance to meet the makers behind an extraordinary range of ceramic works. Plan your route with the Mud Map and explore Bundjalung Country through clay.

Pottery artist working at north coast mud trail festival
Kids Enjoying Sample Food Festival

Sample Food Festival

6 September 2025

Feast your senses at the Sample Food Festival on 6th September 2025, celebrating a decade of culinary excellence in Northern NSW. This event promises an array of affordable tasting plates from the region’s premier dining establishments, complemented by an exquisite selection of local beverages. 

Wander through market stalls, immerse yourself in festival workshops, and enjoy the vibrant backdrop of live music. With guest chefs and pop-up events yet to be announced, prepare for a gastronomic journey that showcases the best of Northern NSW’s food scene.

We Dance Festival

12-14 September 2025

The We Dance Festival returns to Byron Bay from 12th to 14th September 2025, inviting everyone to celebrate movement, music, and connection. Across three days, the festival offers diverse dance workshops, inspiring performances, and social sessions for all skill levels.

From first-timers to experienced dancers, there’s something for everyone, with a focus on creativity, inclusivity, and self-expression. Set against Byron Bay’s picturesque backdrop, spend your days exploring new styles and your nights dancing under the stars.

Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital WILDAID

27 September 2025

Rock darlings Hoodoo Gurus headline WILDAID 2025, a special benefit concert supporting the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital. Held at The Green Room, this powerful night of music features Toni Childs, King Stingray, and The Honey Sliders, with local food, drinks, and a live auction.

Every ticket helps provide care for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife – a celebration of music and community for a worthy cause.

Byron Bay Lindy Exchange

17 - 19 October 2025

Swing into spring at the first-ever Byron Bay Lindy Exchange, a three-day celebration of Lindy Hop, live music, and community connection. With beach picnics, yoga, dance workshops, and themed socials featuring bands like Lucky Seven, this vibrant event offers something for dancers of all levels. Held across stunning Byron locations, the weekend wraps with a mystery bus trip and beachside farewell dance—tickets on sale now, with proceeds supporting Beauties Feeling Fabulous Inc.

Byron Bay Film Festival

17-26 October 2025

Immerse yourself in the cinematic world at the Byron Bay Film Festival, taking place from 17th to 26th October 2025. This festival stands as a beacon for independent filmmakers, offering a diverse program that spans entertaining, inspiring, and thought-provoking films. Set across various venues, BBFF is not just a film festival; it’s an amalgamation of artistry, education, and innovation. 

Engage with films that challenge, inspire, and open dialogues, enhancing our collective worldview. Join us for an experience that transcends the screen and ignites conversations long after the credits roll.

Byron Latin Fiesta

30 October - 2 November 2025

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and colours of the Byron Latin Fiesta, running from the 30th of October to the 2nd of November 2025. This electrifying celebration is a melting pot of Latin dance, live bands, and the hottest Latin DJs spinning tracks into the night. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned dancer looking to strut your stuff, there’s something for everyone. 

From salsa to bachata, zouk to kizomba, and tango to reggaeton, the Fiesta captures the essence of Latin culture. Dive into master classes, kick back at the pre-party, splash around at the pool party, and dance till dawn at the after-parties. With stallholders adding to the festival vibe, the Byron Latin Fiesta is a not-to-be-missed event that welcomes all to celebrate the joy of Latin dance and music.

Byron Bay Santa on the Beach

2025 Dates TBC

Enjoy creating Christmas memories with Santa on the Beach. Held at Australia’s most easterly point, this is your opportunity to capture a photo that truly celebrates the unique experience of Christmas time on the Australian coast. With varying photo packages to suit the size of your family, there is an option for everyone to capture your holiday cheer!

Santa on the beach holding a surfboard
carnival fair games, rides and lights on show

McGregors Carnival and Woodchop

2025 Dates TBC

Getting ready for its 69th year, Mcgregors Family Carnival is a beloved tradition by locals and visitors alike. Set along the picturesque Brunswick River at Banner Park, this free entry event runs nightly (except on Christmas Day) and hosts all of the classic carnival amusement you could hope for. Attend as many times as you’d like, with the Woodchop event bringing the festivities to its closing stages.

Bangalow Christmas Eve Carnival

2025 Dates TBC

The Bangalow Christmas Eve Carnival will return for another year of street performances, fair-ground-rides, food trucks and more! This family-friendly event is held on the main street of Bangalow and has become famous shire-wide for its festive atmosphere and offerings. With something to suit everyone, join in on the spirit of the season and celebrate Christmas at this much-loved event.

Byron Beachside Markets

2025 Dates TBC

Meet local creators, artists and healers at this special beachfront market. Running in addition to the regular monthly markets, the Beachside Market showcases a diverse range of homewares, clothing, art, ceramics, sculptures and more. A family friendly affair with live music and a vibrant atmosphere, you can head on down and enjoy some delicious food options and coffee while you browse the stalls.

beachside market plant stall

Heading to Byron Bay for an event? Make your experience unforgettable by staying at Beach Suites, the epitome of luxury accommodation by the ocean. Located at the main beach’s doorstep, our pet-friendly accommodations promise comfort, style, and the perfect base for any festival or event.

Helen Buckley, Author
Helen, with over thirty years in Byron Bay's hospitality and tourism scene, boasts an unrivalled understanding of the local community, ensuring Beach Suites serves as the perfect gateway to explore Byron's marvels, alongside her contributions to the Byron Bay Guidance Group and various community organisations.
What our customers say
The staff are amazing, first time in a long time I’ve stayed somewhere so well equipped. The location was fantastic - short walking distance to everything
We love it here, best vacation space. Great everything and they are great to your fur baby if you have one.
We stayed at Beach Suites Byron Bay for our baby moon and wedding anniversary weekend, and it was absolutely perfect. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel so welcome.

The room was stunning, spacious, beautifully designed, and spotlessly clean. Every little detail felt luxurious and thoughtful. The rooftop pool was a real highlight, so peaceful and private, with incredible views.

The location couldn’t be better, right in the heart of Byron, walking distance to the beach, restaurants, and shops. Everything was so convenient, yet the suites still felt like a quiet oasis.

We loved it so much, we’ve decided to make it a yearly ritual. Already counting down the days until we return!
Simply Superb! The location is outstanding, across the road from the beach and in the heart of everything. The room was extremely comfortable, spacious and the heated private pool was fantastic even as the temperatures dipped at the end of April when we stayed. The service was amazing, a small hiccup was handled so professionally and efficiently and to top it all off they are pet friendly. I was a little reluctant to write this review because I don't want everyone to know about this amazing place but ultimately they deserve all the praise and we can't wait to go back again. Can't recommend highly enough.
Everything was perfect, room, location, staff, attention to detail. Room is massive and contained so much more equipment than any hotel I have stayed in. Look forward to staying again.
I cannot rate Beach Suites highly enough. As far as Byron Bay goes, the location cannot be beaten. No need to fight for car parking when you step outside of your room, exit your private gate to the street, walk across the road and you’re on the main beach or within a few steps of Byron Bay’s most popular bars and restaurants. Beautiful rooms with excellent amenities including excellent coffee machine and kitchenette. Fantastic spa bath and the private pool and deck were lovely. I would recommend rooms with beach views. It’s a busy location and can get noisy at times but the convenience was more than worth it. Staff were always friendly and helpful and we loved the chocolates the Easter Bunny left for us!
I highly recommend Beach Suites! It is located right across from the beach yet on the edge of the town for shopping. The room was very spacious and inviting with foldout door opening the living space to a small private patio with tables and grill. The other bonus was free parking in an exceptionally cleans garage right off the reception. 🙌🏼
It really is a home away from home, except I don't normally live beach front!!!
Helen and Ava, are just so welcoming and go above and beyond with their warm hospitality. I can't believe we can bring our pooch babies to stay. It's so lovely. The place is expertly finished, with luscious bedding and immaculately clean. I can't wait to visit again. You'll love it!
Perfect spot to soak in the local vibes
I've stayed here a couple of times and it is always an amazing experience. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to stay in Byron Bay
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