Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival – mid-February 2026 (dates TBC)
The Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival returns to the Orange and Cabonne districts in mid-February 2026, marking the 162nd anniversary of Banjo’s birth on 17 February 1864. Exact dates will be confirmed once venue bookings are finalised, but you can pencil in the school-term fortnight beginning Monday 9 February 2026. orange360.com.aucentralnsw.com
What to expect in 2026
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Ten days of poetry, music and performance across Orange, Molong, Yeoval, Cargo and Canowindra.
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Walk-up open-mic sessions in pubs, wineries and parks—perfect for first-time performers.
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Youth & Adult Performance Poetry Championships with cash prizes and the coveted Rotary trophies.
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Family-friendly events such as Banjo’s Birthday Picnic in Banjo Paterson Park and the Rotary Community Market at Orange Showground.
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Workshops & talks on writing, memorisation and the history of Australian bush poetry.
The 2025 festival (13–17 February) drew record crowds and featured more than twenty ticketed and free events, so early booking is advised once the 2026 programme launches. Mirage News
Key venues & partners
| Town / village | Typical venues | Festival partners |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | Civic Centre precinct, Heifer Station Wines, local cafés | Rotary Club of Orange, Orange 360, Orange City Council |
| Molong | Freemasons Hotel, Cobb & Co Coach House | Molong Advancement Group, Cabonne Shire Council |
| Yeoval | Banjo Paterson “More than a Poet” Museum & grounds | Friends of Banjo Paterson Park, Yeoval community |
| Cargo & Canowindra | Historic inns, community halls | Local progress associations |
Programme release & registrations
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Full 2026 programme: expected October 2025.
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Ticket sales & competition entries: open early November 2025 via the festival website (Rotary Club of Orange) and Orange 360 events portal. Numbers for some workshops will be limited.
To receive an email alert when bookings open, join the Rotary Club’s mailing list or follow Rotary Club of Orange NSW on Facebook.
Get involved
| How you can participate | Who to contact |
|---|---|
| Host an event or venue | Rotary Club of Orange events team |
| Enter the poetry comps | Competition Secretary (entry pack available on release) |
| Volunteer on the day | Banjo Festival Volunteer Co-ordinator |
| Become a sponsor | Rotary Club of Orange Sponsorship Lead |
Sponsorship helps keep most events low-cost or free and supports Rotary’s community projects throughout the Central West.
Save the date
Whether you’re a seasoned bush poet, an aspiring writer or simply love a good yarn, set aside mid-February 2026 for a celebration of Banjo’s legacy and the rich storytelling traditions that shape Australia. Keep an eye on official channels for confirmed dates, and start polishing those rhymes!
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