The annual Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival takes place from 16th to 26th February in Orange with a full schedule of events ahead. This will be the fourth festival in its current form since the celebration of his 150th birthday in 2014.
Banjo Paterson, who has become an Australian legend, is best known for his poem Waltzing Matilda, and what better way to celebrate his life than in the district he was born in.
Andrew Barton (Banjo) Paterson was born at Narrambla, Orange on 17th February 1864. He lived in Yeoval until he was about seven. The festival highlights not only Banjo Paterson but is an opportunity to celebrate all Australian poetry and poets in general.
The community will also have the opportunity to polish their poetry and musical entertainment skills.
This is a perfect opportunity to show that Australian poetry is alive and well. The festival will showcase the very best suitable for all age groups.
There will be bush poetry, school performances, professional en- tertainers, markets, golf, barbecues and camp oven cooking. There will also be activities, such as retro fruit preserving, farmers mar- kets, yabbing, poetry competitions, fashion, horse racing, historical tours and much more.
The event kicks off with breakfast in the mornings at different loca- tions everyday from 7.30 to 9.30am for only $5.
The iconic Night Market in Orange will be held on Friday, 17th February. There will be over 30 stalls creating an outdoor playground in beautiful Robertson Park for all the family. Orange’s renowned cool climate wines are matched at each stall with delicious food from local chefs, caterers and cooks. Kick back to the sounds of local music and poetry in the park! The market will be from 5.30pm to 8.30pm at Robertson Park. Gold Coin donation for entry. To view the festival program or to get more information on the festival go to https://brandorange.com.au/orange-nsw/banjo-paterson-festival/