Gilgandra

As a historic and culturally rich town, Gilgandra in New South Wales, Australia invites visitors to observe several nationally or globally recognized annual events. Each of these events offers a glimpse into the town's past, present, and cultural heritage.

1. ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day is a national occasion that honors and remembers the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers who fought and died during the First World War. On April 25, the people of Gilgandra, along with the rest of Australia, pay tribute to the ANZAC soldiers by attending dawn services, wreath-laying ceremonies, and marches.

2. Christmas Carols

December is a festive month in Gilgandra, and the Christmas Carols event is a favorite among locals and visitors. This annual event takes place in Band Shell located in Lower Miller Park. During the Christmas Carols event, people sing carols, watch fireworks, enjoy food stalls, and listen to live music. The event offers a perfect opportunity for people to catch up with friends and family before the holidays.

3. NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week is an annual event that celebrates the rich culture, history, and accomplishments of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In Gilgandra, NAIDOC Week activities and events take place in the local Indigenous Cultural Centre. People participate in traditional dances, listen to stories, taste bush foods, and learn about the local Indigenous culture. The event culminates with a march along the main street of Gilgandra.

4. Australia Day

Australia Day is a significant national occasion that celebrates Australia's diversity, culture, and achievements. On January 26, the people of Gilgandra come together to celebrate the country's national day. The event features a flag-raising ceremony, music, food stalls, and fireworks. Australia Day is a time for people to reflect on what it means to be Australian and to celebrate their shared values.

5. Gilgandra Show

The Gilgandra Show is an annual agricultural and cultural event that takes place over two days in April. The event offers a showcase of the local agricultural industry, including livestock exhibits, show jumping, and equestrian events. In addition to agricultural events, the Gilgandra Show features entertainment such as live music, talent shows, and a fireworks display.

6. Easter Festival

The Easter Festival is a family-friendly event that takes place in Gilgandra across the Easter weekend. The event features fun activities for children, such as an Easter egg hunt, face painting, and a jumping castle. The highlight of the Easter Festival is the annual parade, where locals decorate their floats and march through the main street.

7. Gilgandra Coo-ee Festival

The Gilgandra Coo-ee Festival is an annual event that commemorates the Gilgandra Coo-ee March of 1915. The march was a recruitment drive during World War One, where 35 men from Gilgandra marched to Sydney to join the army. The festival takes place over three days in October and features a variety of activities and events, including a parade, street stalls, live music, and a reenactment of the Coo-ee march.

Gilgandra is a town rich in history, culture, and agricultural significance. Throughout the year, the town holds several nationally or globally recognized annual events that offer visitors an insight into the town's past, present, and cultural heritage. These events bring together the whole community and offer something for everyone to enjoy.