A spectacular program of events has been announced for the 2026 Rainbow Festival, inviting the community to come together for a vibrant celebration of diversity, creativity and inclusion across Orange.
Running from March 4-8 the Rainbow Festival will feature a dynamic mix of events spanning arts and culture, dance, live performances, community events, information sessions, dining experiences and family-friendly activities.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the 2026 program reflected both the strength and diversity of the local LGBTQIA+ community and the broader Orange region.
"The Rainbow Festival continues to grow each year, and the 2026 program is our best yet," Cr Mileto said.
"It's a celebration of pride, creativity and connection, and an opportunity for our whole community to come together in a spirit of respect and belonging."
Festival highlights this year include Orange City Council's signature event, the Rainbow Walk and Community Gathering in Robertson Park; and the Pride Party in McNamara Street, hosted by Haus of Drag Bingo; alongside returning favourites such as the Queer Screen film festival, hosted by Charles Sturt University; and a range of new experiences hosted by local venues.
Events will take place at multiple venues across Orange, including Heifer Station, Rowlee, the Orange Ex-Services Club, Banksia and Groundstone, reinforcing the festival's strong support from local businesses.
A special addition to this year's Festival is the Rainbow Express train, which will depart Sydney's Central Station on Friday 6 March and return on Sunday 8 March.
Orange City Council's Services Policy Committee Chair Marea Ruddy says the festival plays an important role in fostering pride and acceptance in the city.
"The festival creates welcoming spaces where people feel seen and supported, while also bringing real energy into our city. It's wonderful to see local venues coming on board to support events that celebration inclusion and community," Cr Ruddy said.
"It's great to see that an increasing number of organisations and businesses are running fringe events as part of the festival."
View the 2026 program, including event dates, times and ticketing information, and see more information on the website at www.orange.nsw.gov.au/rainbow-festival/.
The Rainbow Festival is supported by the Star Observer and Cheney Suthers.
Wednesday 4 March
Orange Open Air at Banksia, 6.30, Banksia Orange
Queer Screen Film Festival, 7pm, Odeon Cinemas
Thursday 5 March
Haus of Drag Bingo, 7pm, Orange City Bowling Club
MAMMA MIA! A Drag Dining Experience, 6pm, The Greenhouse of Orange
Friday 6 March
Pride Prom, 6pm, CWA Hall
Disco in the Vines, 6.30pm, Heifer Station Wines
Saturday 7 March
Rainbow Walk and Community Gathering, 3pm, Robertson Park
Pride Party, 6pm, McNamara Street
Sunday 8 March
Recovery Brunch, TBC, Groundstone
Rainbow Recovery, 11am, Rowlee Wines
Dogs in Drag, 11am, Heifer Station Wines
