Arts & Culture

Behind the sunsets, fashion and incredible food, one of the things that makes Byron Shire so special is its fascinating home grown art and culture. This also sees a strong connection to traditional Aboriginal Culture, much of which is strongly embraced throughout the Shire.

The Arakwal National Park’s name originates from the people of The Bundjalung of Byron Bay, whose strong connection to the reserve was recognised in 2001. Shortly thereafter, Indigenous Land Use Agreement was signed and exchanged between the tribe and the NSW State Government. Arakwal National Park is a short distance from the town centre and is home to an array of amazing wildlife such as rare birds, the Superb Fairy-wren.

The Arts and the Industry estate at North Byron is home to a myriad of local designers, craftsmen, galleries and showrooms all dedicated to showcasing the constructed beauty and artistic talent on offer in the Byron Bay area.

As well as our permanent cultural fixtures the Byron community also loves a festival…or two!

Byron Bay is home to the 35 years running Bluesfest, formerly known as Byron Bay Blues and Roots Festival, a 5-day event which, over the years, has seen performances from a diverse array of world-class artists such as John Butler Trio, Buddy Guy, Kendrick Lamar, Tom Jones, Jack Johnson, Bonnie Raitt, Patty Smith and Joss Stone. Bluesfest is an all ages event, offering an abundance of arts and craft and delicious street foods that the whole family can enjoy.

The Byron Writers Festival is a well established and essential yearly addition to the arts and culture calendar. In August every year many from all over Australia make the pilgrimage to the Shire to listen to an array of fascinating writers speak not only about their personal experiences with writing but also on a wide variety of topics concerning writing, publishing and associated trials and tribulations.

Anyone wanting to know what feeds the backbone of this Shire need go no further than the hub of food festivals available throughout the year. The Harvest Trail or Sample Food Festival or Caper are all fine examples of the produce, the integrity of the growers and the sumptuous foods that can be made from our bountiful local ingredients. Along with these food driven festivals is Festival of the Stone – a nod to medieval brewing, it’s a tradition held dear where everyone gathers to celebrate the release of the year’s Stone Beer and the first tapping of the keg.

Last but not least the Byron Bay Surf Festival is an iconic member of this local culture festival group. Renowned for celebrating surf culture, environmental sustainability, and community spirit, the Festival is an unforgettable experience with surf all day and a lineup of events and activities all night.

There is always something interesting and unexpected to celebrate within the arts and culture of Byron Bay. Keep an eye on our Events page for updated info on festivals big and small.