The Blue Mountains are particularly beautiful in spring, with colourful gardens, leafy streets and charming villages offering plenty of reasons to venture beyond Sydney. This weekend, one of the region’s most visited towns is preparing for a lively celebration, bringing together local markets, music, entertainment and a much-loved community tradition. Blackheath will come alive this weekend, for its annual Rhododendron Festival, with festivities taking place across the village and its surrounding gardens. Visitors can look forward to a street parade, live performances, family-friendly activities and plenty more. Here’s what to expect from the celebrations and how to make the most of your visit.
Rhododendron Festival returns this weekend
The main festivities kick off on Saturday, November 7, with the town’s community centre and gardens hosting market stalls from 10am to 4pm. Visitors can browse local goods, grab something to eat at the Rhodo Café and enjoy a packed programme of entertainment throughout the day.
One of the biggest highlights is the grand street parade, which will bring a colourful procession through the village, celebrating this year’s theme, Old Times — Good Times. Live music will add to the atmosphere, with performances from local bands, dancers and a traditional Highland pipe band. Families can look forward to pony rides, circus entertainment and live reptile shows, while local shops will join the festivities with themed window displays. St Aidan’s Church will host a flower exhibition and vintage car display, and the Blackheath Art Society will showcase its Unframed exhibition featuring works on paper.
Of course, the festival wouldn’t be complete without its namesake flowers. The Campbell Rhododendron Gardens will be open throughout the weekend, offering visitors a chance to explore the colourful spring blooms and winding garden paths. The gardens are home to around 2,000 rhododendrons, alongside azaleas and other flowering plants, with morning and afternoon teas available at the Rhododendron Society Lodge.
Key details
- Event: Rhododendron Festival, Blackheath
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Time: 10am–4pm
- Location: Blackheath Community Centre and surrounding locations, Blackheath, Blue Mountains
- Entry: Free to attend, with some activities and attractions carrying additional charges
- Parade: 11.30am–12pm along Wentworth Street
- Campbell Rhododendron Gardens: Open 9am–6pm, $5 entry
- Transport: Free shuttle bus connecting festival locations and the gardens
Getting there
Blackheath is just a 1.5-hour drive west of Sydney via the M4 and Great Western Highway, approximately 15 minutes from Katoomba. Alternatively, catch a direct Blue Mountains Line train from Central Station to Blackheath Station, a short walk from the main festival activities. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
