The NSW Government is backing the state’s vibrant regional events calendar with more than $1.3 million in funding awarded to 61 events through the 2025/26 Regional Event Fund.

From community festivals to cultural and sporting events, the successful recipients will share in funding that will help boost local economies, attract visitors from outside the region and promote vibrant communities across the state.

The Regional Event Fund is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to strengthening local communities and boosting regional tourism. Through Destination NSW, grants of up to $50,000 are available to support events with marketing, PR, infrastructure and equipment hire to enhance the visitor experience.

Some of this year’s successful recipients include:

  • Australian Art Deco Festival, a three-day celebration of the 1920s-40s honouring Leeton’s heritage.
  • Glenreagh Timber Festival, a two-day celebration of country culture with food, live music and family-friendly entertainment held in the Clarence Valley.
  • Giiyong Festival, the largest multi-arts Aboriginal cultural festival in Southern NSW that takes place in Pambula Lake.
  • MAKE GOOD Festival, held at the Bundanon Art Museum on the South Coast, features authors, artisans, cultural practitioners, thought-leaders and immersive experiences.
  • Newcastle Fringe Festival, fast becoming ‘Australia’s biggest little fringe’ festival, featuring comedy, theatre, music, children’s and youth theatre, dance, cabaret and more.
  • Snowies Multisport Festival, includes the Snowies MTB Festival, Trail Run Australia and TreX Cross Triathalon all in the heart of the Snowy Mountains.
  • Under the Gums, part of the Goin’ to Gil festival, is a celebration of the unique culture of the Gilgandra region where visitors can experience live music under the stars of Australia’s only dark sky park.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “Regional events are the heartbeat of local communities – they celebrate what makes each region unique while also driving real economic benefits by attracting visitors, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. This investment of more than $1.3 million will give certainty to event organisers across the state to elevate their offerings and reach new audiences.

“I congratulate all the recipients of the Regional Event Fund and thank them for their passion and dedication to ensuring regional NSW remains the nation’s premier destination for unforgettable visitor experiences.”

View the full list of the 2025/26 recipients here.