The much-anticipated Black Gully Festival is back on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, in the scenic Black Gully Reserve (behind NERAM, on the south side of the creek).
This free, family-friendly event is a highlight of the Armidale calendar, celebrating the vibrant community spirit as summer approaches. Expect a day full of music, art, environmental awareness, and community activities, offering something for all ages to enjoy.
Live music performances will be running from 10am to 8pm across three stages.
This year there is a stellar lineup of local bands, soloists, and small groups, as well as visiting bands Bella Frankie Music, Ollie Twohill, Buddy Knox and Kirstie Larkin. Festival-goers will be treated to a rich diversity of musical styles, all curated by The Musicians of Armidale and in partnership with Music NSW. The popular acoustic stage will return to the NERAM Café courtyard, where you can relax with coffee and lunch from Six Counties while enjoying the performances.
Beyond the music, a variety of activities, workshops, and a maker’s market will showcase the talent and creativity of local artisans with everything from embroidery art to macramé, candles, jewelry and preserves. Food stalls will be open throughout the day and evening, keeping attendees well-nourished should you desire a sausage sizzle, sushi or Bellingen Pasta. For the little ones, there will be fun art-making activities to keep them engaged and entertained.
The festival continues its dedication to environmental sustainability with displays from Electrify Armidale, Armidale Urban Rivercare and the New England Rakali and Platypus group. Back by popular demand is the Clothes Swap and a range of slow living workshops for people to enjoy.
“As always, the Black Gully Festival is focused on four key pillars: art, music, environment and community,” said NERAM Director Rachael Parsons.
“These are all things that are vital to Armidale’s vitality and wellbeing. They are the things that make our city a great place to live, and the festival is always a wonderful community focused celebration.”
Attendees are encouraged to bring a folding chair, a reusable water bottle, a coffee cup, and don’t forget sun protection for what is sure to be a warm day.
Thanks to the generous support of Armidale Regional Council, Sustainable Living Armidale, UNE Life, and other local sponsors, the Black Gully Festival remains free and accessible to all. The festival’s success is made possible by the contributions of countless volunteers and equipment loans from the community.
For more information and updates, visit the Black Gully Festival event page.
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