Celebrating inclusion and acceptance within their local community, the Rainbow Festival will be held in Orange from 19 – 23 March 2025.
This year the city’s LGBTQIA+ festival will build on the success of last year’s inaugural celebration with a five-day program of events, including signature events, the Rainbow Walk and the 18+ Street Party, hosted by Orange City Council.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto encouraged residents to get involved in the celebration with our local LGBTQIA+ community. “It’s exciting to see the festival has developed into a five-day event that really embraces and promotes our diversity as a community, said Cr Mileto.
Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair, Cr Marea is pleased local businesses have come on board to host their own fringe events as part of the festival program. “I hope the expanded program of events draws visitors from all across the region and the state to join in a colourful celebration that shows what a welcoming and inclusive community we are,” said Cr Marea.
Orange City Council’s signature events:
Rainbow Walk and community gathering:
Saturday 22 March: 10.00am to 1.00pm
Starting in Robertson Park and heading to the Civic Square South Court – featuring food stalls, market stalls, information stalls and service providers.
Rainbow Festival 18+ Street Party:
Saturday 22 March: 5.00pm to 10.30pm
McNamara Street Car Park – featuring MC Joel Creasy, DJ Jimi the Kween and live music & food stalls. Followed by Afters at the Blind Pig.
Other events that make up the 2025 festival include the Queer Film Festival at the Odeon 5 Cinemas on Wednesday 19 March. Presented by Charles Sturt University, this is your chance to experience an eclectic collection of the best short films from this year’s Mardi Gras Film Festival!
Drag Bingo will take place at the CWA Hall on Thursday 20 March, and get ready for a night of top-tier comedy with Rhys Nicholson and Kirsty Webeck at the Orange Function Centre on Friday 21 March, then dance the night away at Parrot Distilling Co with 50 Years of Pride and Mardi Gras Anthem Dance Party!
On Sunday 23 March, enjoy a recovery breakfast at The Agrestic Grocer, Heifer Station Wines hosts the Doggie Drag Queen Day Out, enjoy a Rainbow Garden Lunch at The Oriana Gardens, give it a go with Pinnacle Dragon Boating Club on Lake Canobolas, then enjoy Last Drinks at Hey Rosey.
The 2025 Rainbow Festival is supported by Orange City Council, Destination NSW, Newmont ($20,000) and Orange360 – along with sponsors Cheney Suthers and Yallungah Boutique Hotel.
The Orange Rainbow Festival runs 19 – 23 March 2025. For more information and full program, visit: www.rainbowfest.com.au for details.
Image: Orange Rainbow Walk (supplied)