As Orange gears up for the 2026 Rainbow Festival, the introduction of the Rainbow Express train offers a unique and memorable way to travel to the event for metropolitan visitors.
Running from 4 – 8 March, the Rainbow Festival will feature a dynamic mix of events spanning arts and culture, dance, live performances, community events, information sessions, dining experiences and family friendly activities.
The Rainbow Express is expected to be a standout feature of this year’s festival, providing a joyful, welcoming experience as it transports festivalgoers from Sydney to Orange for an unforgettable weekend of pride, community and celebration.
The train will depart Sydney’s Central Station at 7.15am on Friday 6 March, arriving in Orange at 12.05pm, just in time for the weekend’s festivities.
The return service will depart Orange at 3.50pm on Sunday 8 March, arriving back in Sydney at 8.45pm. Stops include Strathfield, Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, Katoomba and Mount Victoria, making it easy for passengers across Sydney and the Blue Mountains to hop on board.
Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair, Councillor Marea Ruddy said the Rainbow Express was an exciting example of how the Rainbow Festival continued to evolve as a regional cultural event.
“More than just transport, the train extends the festival experience beyond the Orange region and reflects its expanding vision of accessibility, diversity and regional tourism,” said Cr Ruddy.
“It brings people together in a joyful, party atmosphere and sets the tone for everything the Rainbow Festival represents, such as connection, pride and celebration.”
Cr Ruddy said the visiting friends and family was a big part of the Orange tourism visitation numbers. “I encourage Orange residents to urge their friends and family living in Sydney to get on board,” she said.
The colourful celebration will begin from the moment passengers step on board, with entertainment hosted by our fabulous Drag Queen MC, who will bring the carriage to life with drag bingo, music, laughter and plenty of sparkle.
Guests will be welcomed with a glass of local Orange wine and receive a selection of festival goodies to start the weekend in style. Once in Orange, visitors are free to explore the Rainbow Festival’s program of fringe events, showcasing the region’s creativity, diversity and community spirit.
A festival highlight is the much-loved Rainbow Walk and Community Gathering in Robertson Park from 3.00 – 6.00pm on Saturday 7 March, followed by the high-energy Pride Party from 6.00pm to midnight in McNamara Street.
To help guests make the most of their stay, a range of fun itinerary ideas have been developed, allowing visitors to tailor their perfect Rainbow Festival weekend, whether that means arts and film, food and wine, community events or open-air events.
The 2026 Orange Rainbow Festival runs from 4 – 8 March. For more information, visit: www.orange.nsw.gov.au for details. Tickets for the Rainbow Express train service can be booked here!
Image: Orange Rainbow Express (supplied)