This guide covers key weekends near Byron Bay that you can reach in around 30 to 40 minutes from Ballina, plus a few local favourites closer to home.
A quick note: event dates and programs can change, so always confirm tickets and final details on official event pages.
2026 Byron Bay Events Calendar
Here is a quick look guide to what’s on in 2026 across Ballina, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Mullumbimby, and Bangalow.
January
- Ballina Cup Day: Friday 16 January 2026, Ballina Jockey Club.
- Bangalow Market: Sunday 25 January 2026, Bangalow Showgrounds.
February
- North Coast Show n Shine: Sunday 22 February 2026, Ballina Jockey Club.
March
- Bright Sky Australian Adaptive Surfing Championships: 22 to 29 March 2026, Byron Bay.
April
- Bluesfest: 2 to 5 April 2026, Tyagarah.
- Byron Bay Triathlon: Sunday 26 April 2026, Byron Bay.
June
July
- Mullum Roots Festival: 11 to 12 July 2026, Mullumbimby.
August
- Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta: 22 to 23 August 2026, Shaws Bay (East Ballina).
October
- Byron Bay International Film Festival: held in October 2026 (dates to confirm on the official festival site).
November
- Bangalow Show: 13 to 14 November 2026, Bangalow Showground.
Byron Bay Festivals To Book
Some Byron Bay festivals and major weekends can sell out quickly, especially around school holidays and Easter.
Bluesfest is the headline pick, running from 2 to 5 April 2026 at Tyagarah. The Byron Bay Triathlon on Sunday, 26 April 2026, is another big weekend, even if you are watching.
Local tip: book early for peak weekends, and leave earlier than you expect for Byron area events. Traffic and parking fill up fast on big days.
If you are staying in Ballina, you can enjoy the action, then retreat away from the crowds afterwards.
Summer: Ballina Events
Summer suggests what to do in Ballina, NSW, when you want plans that stay close.
Ballina Cup Day
Friday 16 January 2026 is Ballina’s signature race day at the Ballina Jockey Club, with racing, fashion, food, and plenty of atmosphere.
Tip: Arrive early and plan your transport.
North Coast Show n Shine
North Coast Show n Shine runs on Sunday, 22 February 2026, at the Ballina Jockey Club and is an easy family day out.
Tip: Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water.
Add On: Ballina Markets
Between bigger weekends, Ballina markets are an easy choice. Start with the Ballina Farmers and Producers Market, held every Sunday from 7 am to 11 am at Commemoration Park.
Tip: Go early for breakfast and coffee.
This is a reliable way to do in Ballina, and a practical answer to things to do in Ballina when you want something local without a long drive.
Autumn: Byron Bay Events
Autumn is the busiest stretch, with major weekends across March and April.
Bright Sky Australian Adaptive Surfing Championships
The Bright Sky Australian Adaptive Surfing Championships run from 22 to 29 March 2026 in Byron Bay, with beachside viewing across the week.
Tip: Bring a light jacket. Mornings can start cool.
Bluesfest
Ticketing: Use the official Bluesfest ticketing information when you are ready to buy.
Tip: If shuttles run, they can be a simple option. If you drive, allow extra time at the end of the night.
Bluesfest runs from 2 to 5 April 2026 at Tyagarah.
Byron Bay Triathlon
Registration: Check the official event information for race options and entry details.
Tip: Roads can be busy or closed. Arrive early, and if you are spectating, choose a spot and stay put.
The Byron Bay Triathlon takes place on Sunday, 26 April 2026.
Winter: Northern Rivers Events
For travellers searching for things to do in Northern Rivers style, winter brings crisp days and community festivals. It is also a good season for things to do in the Northern Rivers without peak summer heat.
Love Lennox Festival
Ticketing: Many community festivals have free entry, but always confirm what is on and any costs via the official website.
Tip: Get there early.
Love Lennox Festival returns on Saturday, 13 June 2026, in Lennox Head.
Mullum Roots Festival
Ticketing: Check the official festival site for passes and updates.
Tip: Keep a warm layer for the evening.
Mullum Roots Festival runs from 11 to 12 July 2026 in Mullumbimby.
Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta
Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta is held at Shaws Bay in East Ballina on 22 to 23 August 2026.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket or chairs.
Spring: Byron And Bangalow
Spring suits easy day trips and local events that work for all ages.
Byron Bay International Film Festival
Ticketing: Program and session details usually land closer to the festival, so check the official festival website when you are planning.
Tip: Book a dinner plan in Ballina before or after your film session.
Byron Bay International Film Festival is set to be held in October 2026.
Bangalow Show
Bangalow Show runs from 13 to 14 November 2026 at the Bangalow Showground.
Tip: Pack comfortable shoes, and plan a few hours.
Ballina And Byron Between Events
Even with major weekends in the diary, quieter days matter. This is where Ballina things to do is handy.
What To Do in Ballina Between Big Weekends
For Ballina, what to do on a free morning, keep it simple. Enjoy the pool, have a slow breakfast, then head out for a short drive to the coast or a local cafe.
Ballina NSW Things To Do
Ballina NSW things to do can be parks, markets, and relaxed dinners. Travelling with a pet? Check your room type and enjoy an easy, walk-friendly holiday.
Things To See In Ballina
For things to see in Ballina, choose one scenic stop, take a few photos, then keep the rest of the day open.
Things To Do In Byron Bay
Many of the best things to do in Byron Bay are simple: a beach walk, a browse through town, and a relaxed meal. If you are asking what to do in Byron Bay between events, plan one key activity and leave space for wandering.
More Markets To Add
Along with the Sunday farmers market in Ballina, consider the Bangalow Market on Sunday, 25 January 2026, at the Bangalow Showgrounds.
For evening browsing, the Byron Twilight Market runs at Railway Park, with dates listed on official NSW event listings.
Plan Your 2026 Visit
Choose one or two key weekends, then fill the gaps with markets and day trips. Staying in Ballina Byron Islander Resort keeps you close to the action, with a calmer base to come back to after busy days. Book early around the dates that matter most, and double-check official event pages for tickets and final details.
Image credit: Bangalow Show