ChillOut Festival

ChillOut Festival 2026

ChillOut Festival is Australia's largest and longest-running regional LGBT+ festival, held annually in Daylesford, Victoria. Over the Labour Day long weekend (March 5-9, 2026), this event transforms the town into a queer hub, attracting over 30,000 visitors from across Australia and beyond.

A Rich History of Rural Pride

ChillOut began as a simple country picnic LGBT+ gathering in 1997, featuring gumboot tossing and sack races. What started as a small local event has grown into a national festival while maintaining its country spirit. The celebration's evolution celebrates the journey of rural queer sibility in Australia, acknowledging how far we've come.

The ChillOut Difference: Relaxed & Authentic

Unlike big city pride events, ChillOut offers a uniquely family-friendly, down-to-earth, and relaxed atmosphere where:

-The pace is relaxed, allowing for genuine connections

-Country charm meets queer celebration in perfect harmony

-Visitors can truly be themselves without pretense

-The natural environment of the festival enhances the experience 

This authentic blend of rural hospitality and queer joy has earned ChillOut a special place in Australia's LGBT+ calendar.

What to Expect in 2026

The 25th anniversary edition promises to be the most memorable yet, featuring:

-The iconic Carnival Day with markets and live entertainment

-Spectacular drag shows and cabaret performances

-Dance parties in beautiful country settings

-Community forums celebrating rural queer life

-Opportunities to explore Daylesford's renowned food and wine scene

Supporting the Queer Community

By taking part in ChillOut, you're helping sustain queer visibility in regional Australia. ChillOut is more than just a festival, it's a registered charity that provides vital support for regional queer communities, funds important initiatives like Raising Rainbows, and more. It is important to mention that as a charity and semi-free event, the festival relies on donations and sponsorships to remain accessible. Click here to donate through the website.

Festival Details:

-March 5-9, 2026
-Daylesford, Victoria
-All ages and identities welcome
-Tickets can be purchased through the website