Run by the community, for the community, the
Redland Spring Festival (RedFest) is an annual arts and cultural extravaganza which boasts a diverse and colourful
program. Not many festivals can lay claim to having stood the test of time, but this iconic fest has now been running for over fifty years.
September 7th - 9th 2012 will see the Cleveland Showgrounds burst to life once again for two and a half days of family-friendly fun, excitement and entertainment.
Music is a major component of the festival with a number of stages hosting a bevy of local and international artists. From the smooth grooves of the
Caxton St Jazz Band to the rocking riffs of local band
Hill 60, visitors are promised a rich and eclectic music mix. New talent is encouraged with the finals for all categories of the annual
Vocal Competition being held on the Sunday.
It's an absolute mecca for the kids with their own sideshow alley, facepainting, miniature horses, free creative
workshops (circus, pot painting, beading, lantern decorating, screen printing),
theatre, and on Saturday, the under 10s can dance the night away at their own disco.
Adults too can participate in a number of free
workshops including screen printing, clay sculpture, sunprinting on silk, dynamic drawing (bookings required for this one), belly dancing and paper weaving.
For a cuppa and some quiet time,
The Gallery venue will house the Devonshire Tea Shop this year, in addition to the
Art, Photography and Sculpture Competition and Exhibition.
Highlights of this year's festival including the renowned
Strawberry Eating Competition, headline musical acts
Mental as Anything and Grammy Award winner
Leo Sayer, and the dazzling
Lantern Parade which will be followed by a fire dancing performance and a spectacular fireworks display.
And new to the festival this year is
Redfest Theatre which will feature a number of one act plays as part of the Redfest Drama Festival, performances by our stars of tomorrow with the Redfest Children's Theatre showcase, and an opportunity to get involved with the Redlands Prima Donna's improvisation workshop and performance.
Tickets are $12 adults, $8 concession, $5 children and can only be purchased at the gate this year. Street parking is available is you're lucky, or there is an all day car park available for a flat fee of $5.
The festival is running Friday 5.00pm - 9.00pm, Saturday 9.00am - 9.00pm and Sunday 9.00am - 4.00pm.
Fresh air, fresh strawberries, community spirit and endless entertainment - what a wonderful way to welcome Spring!
