Plunge Art & Culture Festival

Image credit: Joy HAYMAN WARD, 'Great Night Grooving on the Grass' Winner Community Category, InFocus 2024

Welcome to the Plunge Art and Culture Festival, your gateway to the creative heart of the Clarence Valley! Every April, our vibrant region bursts into a month-long celebration of art, music, performance, and community spirit. The Plunge Festival is more than just an event; it’s an invitation to dive into the colourful tapestry of local culture and creativity.

The Clarence Valley is a year-round haven for art lovers, but there’s something extra special about April. The festival offers a smorgasbord of workshops where you can try your hand at everything from pottery to painting, dance to drama. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, there’s a workshop waiting to spark your imagination.

To help you make the most of your festival experience, the Plunge Festival publishes a free comprehensive festival guide every April. To keep up to speed with where and when you can get your hands on the free Plunge Guide make sure you are following Clarence Valley Culture on Facebook and Instagram.

But it’s not just about what you see and do—it’s about the people you meet. The Plunge Festival brings together artists, performers, and audiences in a joyful celebration of our shared culture. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and create lasting memories.

Even when the festival isn’t in full swing, the Clarence Valley’s art scene is buzzing. Explore our art gallery trail, historic sites, and public art trail amongst the streets, any time of the year. Let the spirit of creativity guide you through charming towns and picturesque landscapes, each with its own unique stories and artistic flair.

So why wait? Dive into the Plunge Art and Culture Festival and experience the Clarence Valley in all its artistic glory. 

The Plunge Art & Culture Festival is proudly brought to you by Clarence Valley Council and Clarence Valley Culture.

The Plunge program is available at galleries throughout the Clarence Valley, Libraries and Clarence Valley Council offices. Postage only available for outside the Clarence Valley region. 

Congratulations to the 2026 INFOCUS Photograghy Competition

The 2026 winners were chosen from 250+ entries by a panel of local professional photographers. Each winner is featured in the Plunge Arts & Culture Festival program and exhibitions at Grafton Regional Gallery and Yamba Community Gallery throughout the festival.  

Jacaranda Drive — Kim Talento
InFocus Winner 2026 | Environment Category

The Ultimate Mud Bath — Gary Nicols
InFocus Winner 2026 | Community Category

Cane Burn, Woodford Island — Jake Murray
InFocus Winner 2026 | Environment Category

Crabbing at Dawn on the Clarence Valley — Martin Rohde
InFocus Winner 2026 | People Category

Morning Glare — Christine Sweeney
InFocus Winner 2026 | Plunge Category