The Lotterywest Avon Descent Festivals are set to continue for another year of exciting free community events. Hosted annually on the second weekend in August, the festivals offer the perfect opportunity for outdoor fun with family and friends, and of course, a chance to see The Avon Descent itself.
This year, competitors have a couple of ways to get involved, with short one-day options or even team relays if you’re not up to the challenge of the 124-kilometre full course. Spectators can spot kayaks, outriggers, SUPs, surf boats and dragon boats along with a variety of powercraft over the weekend, starting from Northam and paddling to the finish line in Bayswater on Sunday.
Although the race is exciting, the three festivals are a huge draw for the weekend—the festivities kick off with the Northam Bilya Festival on Friday, where the powercraft are paired with a street parade and free carnival. Sunday sees both the City of Swan Festival and the Bayswater Finish Line Festival overlap for some awesome free entertainment to join the Avon Descent, like food trucks, market stalls, and even a winter wonderland. At Bayswater, you’ll even have a chance to welcome competitors over the finish line and catch the winners.
We’ve put together a day-by-day rundown so you don’t miss out on the action, and even included maps of each festival so you know your way around.
Friday August 8 – Northam Bilya Festival
Bernard Park, 4pm – 9pm
This year’s Bilya Festival is the biggest street party in Northam. Experience the Avon Descent on Friday afternoon, followed by a carnival complete with free rides like the Storm, Fiesta Balloons and Taxi Cabs, alongside roving entertainment, music, food and a firework finale to ring in the Avon Descent weekend.
Sunday August 10 – City of Swan Avon Descent Festival
Lilac Hill Park, 10am – 3pm
Get outdoors and experience the race day excitement at the City of Swan Avon Descent Festival, passing through the Swan Valley vineyard region, Upper Swan Bridge and Bells Rapids. Gourmet food and wine are available to sample, as pop-up markets and stalls see the best local growers and creatives show out. Spectators can even explore the City’s winter wonderland, complete with a snow arena and ice skating!
Sunday August 10 – Bayswater Finish Line Festival
Bayswater Riverside Gardens, 11am – 5pm
Arguably the best spot to catch the race is at the Bayswater Finish Line Festival, where you’ll join support crews and other spectators in congratulating Avon Descent finishers!
Set up along the river to see the paddlers and powerboats cross the finish line, all while soaking up the free entertainment of the festival, like children’s face painting, roving performers and food trucks and market stalls. There’s something for everyone at the finish line, so don’t miss out on being a part of WA’s unique paddle and powerboat sporting event.
