What’s On in Ballina NSW – 2025 Events Calendar
Discover What’s On in Ballina and Beyond
Looking for upcoming events in Ballina NSW? From farmers markets and food festivals to live music, surfing comps and cultural celebrations, the Ballina region is buzzing with activity all year round.
Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or here for a coastal escape, check out our curated calendar of what’s on in Ballina, Lennox Head, Byron Bay, and the wider Northern Rivers.
Weekly & Monthly Markets
- Ballina Farmers & Producers Market
Held every Sunday from 7–11am at Missingham Park. Find seasonal produce, artisan goods, local honey, gourmet treats and live music. - Bangalow Markets
One of the region’s most beloved monthly markets, held on the 4th Sunday of each month. Shop from over 300 stalls under the shade of Bangalow Showgrounds.
Sport & Outdoor Events
- Oz Grom Open
📍 Lennox Head | 🗓️ 3–8 July 2025, 2026 date TBC
Australia’s biggest junior surfing competition. Watch the next generation carve it up at the famous Lennox Point break. - Evans Head Fishing Classic
📍 Evans Head | 🗓️ 4–11 July 2025, 2026 date TBC
A huge family-friendly fishing comp with cash prizes, live entertainment, and daily giveaways. - Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta
📍 Ballina | 🗓️ 30 August 2025
Watch teams paddle it out on the Richmond River. Colourful, loud and exciting to watch from the riverbank. - Oceania Cup – Alstonville Football
📍 Alstonville |🗓️ 4–5 October 2025
A high-level youth football (soccer) tournament drawing teams from across Oceania. - Ballina Boxing Day Races
📍 Ballina Jockey Club | 🗓️ 26 December 2025
One of Ballina’s most anticipated social events of the year. Dress up, grab a picnic spot, and enjoy summer racing action.
Music, Arts & Culture
- Byron Writers Festival
📍 Byron Bay | 🗓️ 9–11 August 2025
One of Australia’s leading literary festivals, showcasing writers, thinkers, and creators from all over the world. - Bangalow Music Festival
📍 Bangalow | 🗓️ 11–14 August 2025
An elegant classical music festival held in the heart of Bangalow, known for its acoustics and intimate venues. - North Coast Mud Trail
📍 Northern Rivers | 🗓️ 16–17 August 2025
Explore the region’s working ceramic studios and meet the artists behind the clay. Self-drive trail with workshops and exhibitions. - 13th Annual Sample Food Festival
📍 Bangalow Showgrounds | 🗓️ 6 September 2025
Northern NSW’s signature food event featuring gourmet tastings, celebrity chefs, and produce from the Byron to Tweed region. - Tyalgum Music Festival
📍 Tyalgum | 🗓️ 26–28 September 2025
A boutique classical and contemporary music festival set in a quaint mountain village near Mt Warning. - Lismore Show
📍 Lismore Showground | 🗓️ 16–18 October 2025
Traditional agricultural show with rides, farm animals, food stalls, and competitions. A family favourite for over a century. - Byron International Film Festival
📍 Byron Bay & surrounds | 🗓️ 18–27 October 2025
Showcasing independent films from around the world with a focus on social change, storytelling, and stunning cinematography. - Nimbin Roots Festival
📍 Nimbin | 🗓️ 24–26 October 2025
A laid-back music and arts festival celebrating folk, roots, blues and Indigenous performers. - Murwillumbah Show
📍 Murwillumbah Showgrounds | 🗓️ 31 October – 1 November 2025
Agricultural heritage meets live music, market stalls and fun rides in this scenic riverside town. - Rotary Duck Race
📍 Richmond River, Ballina | 🗓️ 10 November 2025
Cheer on hundreds of rubber ducks racing down the river – all for a good cause!
Plan Your Stay Around a Local Event
Whether you’re attending a festival, catching a wave at Lennox, or just love the vibe of weekend markets, we’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
Looking for accommodation close to the action? View our rooms or contact our team to book your stay.