The annual Rainbow on the Plains Festival is set to take place in Hay, Australia, from November 13 to November 16, 2025, featuring a dynamic lineup of performers and events centered around the theme of “Transition.” This vibrant celebration of the LGBTIQA+ community aims to foster inclusivity while providing a significant economic boost to the region.
Festival organisers have announced an exciting schedule filled with high-profile acts, including singer Thndo, and drag performers PAULINE and ZOE BADWI. The event will also feature popular drag acts such as Shelita Buffet and Angel Cupcakes, ensuring a captivating experience for attendees over the four-day celebration.
The festival has grown in stature since its inception, becoming a crucial date on the Riverina events calendar. It promises to attract visitors from both near and far, bolstering local businesses and tourism along key travel routes. Accommodation in Hay is expected to be in high demand, leading organisers to advise early bookings to secure lodging.
Festival Highlights and Community Impact
The weekend kicks off on November 13 with an event at the South Hay Hotel, hosted by drag performer Shelita Buffet. The highlight of the festival, the main concert titled “Rainbow on the Greens,” takes place on November 14, featuring performances from Thndo and an array of drag artists, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
The festival continues with the iconic Street Parade on November 15, moving through Lachlan Street. Following the parade, the Angie Fair Day offers a free family-friendly experience at Hay Park, featuring markets, food stalls, and activities for youth. The weekend concludes with an adult-only closing event, the Saturday After Party, headlined by PAULINE and ZOE BADWI.
The “Transition” theme reflects the festival’s commitment to celebrating journeys of growth and resilience, particularly within the trans community. Organisers emphasise the importance of creating an inclusive space for rural and remote LGBTIQA+ individuals and their allies, ensuring a welcoming environment for all attendees.
A Growing Tradition in Hay
Since its establishment in 2018, the Rainbow on the Plains Festival has transformed from a small gathering into a significant event, highlighting rural LGBTQIA+ issues while providing a vital economic stimulus to the region. Originally conceived by a group of local mothers as a fundraising event, the festival quickly gained momentum with the support of community partners, evolving into a three-day extravaganza.
By its second year, attendance had reportedly doubled, with local accommodations fully booked for weeks. The festival’s success was further solidified by securing federal funding through the Tackling Tough Times Together program, aimed at supporting local businesses during periods of drought.
Despite interruptions from the Covid-19 pandemic, the festival has made a strong comeback since 2022, continuing to attract large crowds and garnering national attention. Notably, the 2022 festival set a record for the largest “human rainbow,” symbolising community support and allyship.
Operated by Hay Mardi Gras Incorporated and relying on community volunteers, the festival focuses on three core goals: fostering inclusion and visibility for LGBTIQA+ individuals, promoting mental health awareness, and generating economic benefits for the local community.
The Rainbow on the Plains Festival is more than just an event; it serves as a platform for change, encouraging a sense of belonging among attendees and strengthening the fabric of the rural heartland. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website and social media for ticketing and updates on the festival schedule.
