Spring Unveils Vibrant Colors, Activations, Experiences

Beautiful blooms, vibrant colour, and unique outdoor experiences are among the highlights of the 2026 Bloom destination campaign, featuring more than 100 events and experiences across Greater Bendigo and Loddon Shire.

Nature lovers can enjoy stunning displays of tulips and seasonal blooms in Rosalind Park, Conservatory Gardens and Pall Mall. The popular Village of Gnomes has a new home this year at the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, where visitors can search for 11 cheeky hidden gnomes while exploring the heritage garden blooms.

The popular Bloom After Dark returns bigger and better during the school holidays from September 18 to October 3 featuring illuminated tulip beds in Rosalind Park and giant interactive blooms along Pall Mall and extended to Heathcote and Bridgewater for the first time.

Visitors are also invited to enter Dai Gum San precinct as part of the After Dark trail, where the Yi Yuan Gardens are illuminated in a spectacular golden display commemorating 175 Years of Gold in Bendigo, proudly presented by Agnico Eagle Fosterville Gold Mine.

Market lovers can enjoy the popular Bloomin Good Pop-Up Market on Friday September 25 and the larger Bloomin Good Market on Sunday September 27 in Rosalind Park, celebrating fresh local produce, artisan wares, and handmade gifts.

The Bloom program also celebrates major events which are a big draw for visitors and residents. These include the Harvest Moon Festival and Moonlight Market on September 25, Loddon Valley Arts Trail, October 2-4, Bendigo Latin Festival, October 3, Vegecareian Festival at the Great Stupa, October 3, Heathcote Wine and Food Festival, October 10-11, Bendigo Wine Week, October 12-17, Bendigo Comedy Festival, October 7-17, Bendigo Agricultural Show, October 23-24, FunLoong Fun Day in the Mall, October 17, Bendigo Cup, October 28, Blooms

Amongst the Sculptures (Spanner Man), October 31 to November 1, Inglewood Alive, November 1.

Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon has developed Bloom in collaboration with our tourism industry members, delivering a diverse range of unique events, activations, and experiences throughout spring.

Be immersed in a sea of yellow at the Cornella Canola Walk in Heathcote, discover unique art exhibitions and events across Loddon with the Loddon Valley Arts Trail, stroll among the paper daisies or even dress up in vintage attire and enjoy a 1900s-inspired garden party at the at Pure Maiden Farm in Maiden Gully.

Nature enthusiasts can indulge in a range of nature based events and tours such as Kooyoora Wildflower Tours at Kooyoora State Park, Guided Walks at Bendigo Botanic Gardens, Wedderburn Open Gardens weekend and the inaugural Bloom in Borough Garden Show at Canterbury Gardens.

There is also an abundance of cultural tours and events on offer, including First Nations experiences delivered by Djarra guides, such as the Bendigo Ulumbarra CBD Tour, Larni Garingilang Walking Tour, Argyle Spring Walking Tour, and Kooyoora Cultural Tour. Visitors can also experience the launch of Dumuwal's Malamiya Mang program, featuring art exhibitions, workshops, and community events.

Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon members have also created themed day and nighttime experiences under the stars, curated cocktails, seasonal menus, and gastronomic feasts. You can also enjoy a picnic in picturesque outdoor settings with Bloomin Hungry Packs celebrating the region's fine produce or explore the Bloom Cocktail Trails.

Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon Executive Officer James Myatt said Bloom showcased the region at its colourful best.

"Bloom is a celebration of everything that makes spring in our region so special, from stunning gardens and vibrant public spaces to unique cultural experiences, local food and wine, art, music and family-friendly activities," Mr Myatt said.

"With more than 100 events and experiences on offer, Bloom encourages visitors and locals to explore our whole region from Heathcote to Boort, Whether you're enjoying Bloom After Dark, wandering through fields of wildflowers, attending a market or joining a guided cultural tour,

Bloom offers memorable experiences for people of all ages throughout spring."

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