Image Credit: Diana Domonkos

Castlemaine Fringe Festival announces massive line-up featuring Nai Palm, a remembrance rave, creative workshops + more

The festival’s biggest program yet features a mix of more than 160 ticketed and free events across just over two weeks

The Castlemaine Fringe Festival is back in 2025, and this year it’s set to be bigger and better than ever! For over 30 years, this vibrant festival has been a haven for independent artists, performers, musicians, and creatives, offering a space where innovation and artistic expression can shine.

Mark your calendars for the kick-off event: a HUGE, FREE STREET PARTY on Saturday 22 March outside the Castlemaine Town Hall and surrounding streets. Picture this: 3 stages, 150+ performers, food, drinks, art, live painting, projections, DJs, and non-stop fun! It’s going to be the perfect way to dive into the festival vibes—whether you’re there to groove, munch, or simply soak in the creative energy.

Castlemaine Fringe Festival

When: Saturday 22 March – Sunday 6 April
Where: Castlemaine and surrounds, Dja Dja Wurrung Country, VIC

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

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But that’s just the beginning—Castlemaine Fringe 2025 has a jam-packed lineup of events that you won’t want to miss. From wild music gigs to comedy, theatre, workshops, and exhibitions, there’s something for everyone.

In short, here’s what to expect (but make sure you scroll down to check out exactly who, what, where and how we’re partying with the fringe)

20 Theatre & Fabulous Theatrics – From experimental theatre to cabaret to immersive performances
44 Live Music – Showcasing a diverse lineup of artists & genres, including international acts
62 Open Studios & Exhibitions – Meet local artists and explore Castlemaine’s creative spaces
10 Comedy Acts – A mix of stand-up, improv, and boundary-pushing performances
7 Film & Literature Events – Bringing storytelling to life through cinema and literature
8 Social Impact Events – Thought-provoking performances and conversations
11 Creative Workshops – Learn from experienced artists & industry professionals

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MUSIC

Nai Palm @ Theatre Royal, Thurs 27 March
Club Unity @ lot19, Sat 29 March
Babooshka: The Best of Kate Bush @ Phee Broadway Theatre, Wed 2 + Sun 5 April
Charlie Needs Braces @ Shedshaker Taproom, Fri 4 April
Garden Seat Sunday Sessions @ The Red Hill Hotel, Sun 23, 30 March, & 6 April

COMEDY

Kieran Bullock presents IKEA Wars @ Flamin’ Galah Fringe Hub, Sun 23 March
Bliss Bombs Burlesque @ Uniting Church Hall, Fri 28 & Sat 29 March
Unladylike @ Phee Broadway Theatre, Sun 29 March

THEATRE & THEATRICS

198(4) by Skin of Our Teeth Productions @ Phee Broadway Theatre, Fri 4 April
Constellations @ Wesley Hill Hall, Fri-Sun, 28 March – 6 April

FILM & LITERATURE

Christabel Blackman in Conversation @ Castlemaine Art Museum, Sun 23 March
My Temporary Name Was Refugee! @ Flamin’ Galah Fringe Hub, Tues 25 March

EXHIBITIONS & OPEN STUDIOS

Arts Trail: Visit nearly 50 artists in their studios over two weekends (29-30 March, 5-6 April)
Fringe & Frida @ Market Building, celebrating Frida Kahlo’s life and art
Departure Point @ lot19 Gallery

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! You can also expect workshops like Boot Scootin’ at Castlemaine Town Hall, zine-making at Sac’O’Suds Launderette, and comic-making at The Coolroom. Plus, get your groove on at When Pigs Fly to Castlemaine, a one-of-a-kind event bringing Melbourne-based culture to the region.

Tickets for the Castlemaine Fringe Festival 2025 are now available, so get in quick and grab yours!

Castlemaine Fringe Festival—where creativity runs wild, and the good times never end!

Castlemaine Fringe is supported by our local community, Visit Victoria, Regional Arts Victoria, Mount Alexander ShireCouncil, Rotary, Community Bank Maldon & District and the Australian Government through Festivals Australia.