Avon Descent Festivals
The Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals, are a series of spectacular events held annually on the second weekend in August alongside the Avon Descent. They are a perfect opportunity for family and friends to get outdoors and experience the gathering of local community and the excitement of the event.
We look forward to creating opportunities for the whole community to come together to enhance community connection, strengthen social capital, and encourage a celebration of history for the 50th year of the Avon Descent.
First held in 1973, the Avon Descent is Western Australia's unique paddle and powerboat sporting event. Avon Descent competitors challenge the Avon and Swan Rivers in a variety of paddle and power craft in an exciting two-day challenge over 124 gruelling kilometres.
Together with participating Councils, Shire Northam, Shire Toodyay, City of Swan and the City of Bayswater we aim to create a family-friendly atmosphere to connect the local communities along the Avon and Swan Rivers.
Lotterywest has been a major community supporter of the Avon Descent Festivals since 2004.
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Friday 11 August
The Northam Bilya Festival
The Northam Bilya Festival will return on Friday, 11 August, with a winter wonderland edition to celebrate the 50th year event. Offering the most exciting amusements, food stalls, and live entertainment you’ll find in the Avon Valley this year! Don’t miss the ever-popular community street parade and celebration by the Shire of Northam.
Date: Friday, 11 August 2023
Time: 5:00pm - 09:00pm
Location: Bilya Koort Boodja Centre Garden, Minson Ave, Northam
For more information call the Northam Visitor Centre on (08) 9622 2100 or visit https://www.avondescent.com.au/festivals/
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Saturday 12 August
Toodyay’s International Food Fest
Toodyay’s International Food Fest will keep visitors fed and entertained on Saturday, 12 August. Just an hour’s drive from the CBD, come and enjoy international cuisine from all corners of the globe while soaking up the international music and entertainment acts!
Date: Saturday, 12 August 2023
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Location: Stirling & Duidgee Parks, Stirling Terrace, Toodyay
For more information call (08) 9574 9380 or visit https://www.avondescent.com.au/festivals/
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Sunday 13 August
City of Bayswater Finish Line Festival
Nothing beats an exciting finish! Join support crews and spectators in welcoming competitors over the finish line of the 50th Avon Descent at the City of Bayswater Finish Line Festival. Listen to live commentary and watch the race live on the big screen. Enjoy a sensational day of free entertainment, children’s activities, food and more, while celebrating the natural beauty of the Swan River (Derbal Yerrigan) and its cultural and spiritual significance to the Noongar people
Date: Sunday, 13 August 2023
Time: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Location:Riverside Gardens, Milne Street, Bayswater
Visit https://www.avondescent.com.au/festivals/ for more information.
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Sunday 13 August
City of Swan Avon Descent Festival
Get outdoors and experience the excitement of the Race on the banks of Lilac Hill, as competitors paddle and race through the Swan Valley vineyard region, Upper Swan Bridge and Bells Rapids. There's plenty for the whole family to see and do, with pop-up artisan markets, roving entertainment, show rides for the kids, and performances from local musicians. Come to the City of Swan Avon Descent festival to celebrate 50 years of this iconic event, they will be hosting the first ever throwback museum, allowing visitors to explore the rich history of master crafts!
Date: Sunday, 13 August 2023
Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Lilac Hill park, 850 W Swan Rd, Caversham
For more information call (08) 9267 9267 or visit https://www.avondescent.com.au/festivals/
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Find out more about the race, including details on how to compete, by visiting www.avondescent.com.au/.
