Castlemaine Pride is inviting the community to celebrate diversity, creativity and connection at Pride Fest 2026, transforming the Old Castlemaine Gaol into a vibrant rainbow festival this Saturday.
Featuring live entertainment, performances, art, fashion, food, community stalls and the much-loved Pride Dog Show, this year’s Pride Picnic promises a colourful celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride and belonging in the heart of regional Victoria.
Castlemaine Pride Organiser Mikey said this year’s event at the Castlemaine Gaol is all about creating a true community festival atmosphere.
“We’ve brought together an incredible line-up of performers, local artists, community groups, makers, young people and businesses to showcase everything that makes our region so vibrant,” Mikey said.
“From dog shows and art exhibitions to a rainbow catwalk, music and community connection, PrideFest is a celebration of diversity, creativity and belonging.”The main stage will feature an exciting line-up of local and nationally celebrated talent, including Cheryl Hann-Woodlock, Polly Filla, Gabriella Labucci, Fernie Nicoll, Soft Animals and DJ Jen Moore.
Head over to the Old Castlemaine Gaol to browse stalls from LGBTQIA+ artists and makers, connect with local community organisations, refresh your wardrobe at The Good Op Shop’s free clothing stall, enjoy a BBQ, coffee and ice cream, discover new reads at the book swap, and take part in a variety of community activities and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.
No Castlemaine Pride celebration would be complete without the much-loved Rainbow Catwalk, where community members of all ages are invited to step onto the red carpet. Whether it’s sequins, vintage glamour, rainbow fabulousness or your everyday style, everyone is invited to hit the runway.
Another festival favourite, the Pride Dog Show, returns with a colourful showcase of pup charm. Proudly sponsored by Midland Pet Supplies and Dig Dog Training Castlemaine, the competition invites four-legged friends to compete for titles including Waggiest Tail, Owner Look-a-Like, Rainbow Fabulous, and Best Trick.
Adding to this year’s celebrations is the PrideFest26 Rainbow Art Walk: From Persecution to Pride, proudly sponsored by Castlemaine Art Museum. The exhibition will showcase works by local artists exploring themes of identity, resilience, history, community and pride.
Pride Picnic 2026 is on this Saturday November 14 from 12pm to 5pm at Castlemaine Gaol. Entry is free.
All welcome, LGBTQIA+ community members and allies of all ages.