Broken Hill

As a bustling city within the vast Australian outback, Broken Hill has a vibrant culture and a slew of annual events that reflect its unique character. From film festivals to horse races, the city features a wide variety of nationally or globally recognised events that bring together locals and tourists alike. Here are just a few of the major events that take place in and around Broken Hill each year.

St Patrick's Day: Every March 17th, the city of Broken Hill turns green to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, which commemorates the patron saint of Ireland. The city's numerous Irish pubs and clubs host lively celebrations featuring traditional music, dance, and plenty of beer. Locals and visitors alike dress up in green and take part in festive parades and parties that go on well into the night.

Broken Hill Masters Games: Held every two years, the Broken Hill Masters Games is a huge multi-sport event that attracts competitors from all over Australia and beyond. The event features a wide range of sports, including basketball, hockey, golf, athletics, and more, and is open to athletes 30 years and older. The competition is all about fun and camaraderie, with participants of all skill levels taking part and cheering each other on.

The Silver City Show: This annual agricultural show is a major event on the Broken Hill calendar, drawing thousands of visitors from across the region each year. The show features everything from livestock exhibits and horse races to carnival rides and live music. It's a great opportunity to experience the country lifestyle and see some impressive animals up close!

Broken Heel Festival: Perhaps the city's most famous event, the Broken Heel Festival celebrates all things drag, song, and dance. The festival started in 2015 as a tribute to the iconic drag queen Priscilla, who headed across the Australian outback in the film "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." Since then, the festival has grown to become one of the biggest drag events in Australia, featuring live performances, cabarets, and drag shows galore.

Outback Astronomy: While not exactly an event, Outback Astronomy is definitely an experience worth mentioning. This unique stargazing tour takes you out of the city into the heart of the outback, where you can see some of the starriest skies in the world. The tour guides provide fascinating insights into the astronomy and culture of the region, making for an unforgettable night under the stars.

Broken Hill Film Festival: The Broken Hill Film Festival is a testament to the powerful role Broken Hill has played in Australian film history. The festival showcases independent films from around the world, as well as showcasing classic films that have been filmed in and around the area. The festival also includes workshops, masterclasses, and networking events with industry professionals.

Silver City Cup: Horse racing is a beloved pastime in Broken Hill, and the Silver City Cup is one of the biggest racing events of the year. It's a chance to see some of the fastest horses and best jockeys in the region, as well as to enjoy the festive atmosphere that surrounds the races.

Broken Hill Desert Festival: Last but certainly not least, the Broken Hill Desert Festival is a celebration of the city's unique landscape and culture. The festival includes art exhibitions, concerts, dance performances, poetry readings, and more, all set against the stunning outback backdrop. It's a great way to experience the city's creative energy, as well as to discover some of the many hidden gems that the region has to offer.

there are plenty of nationally or globally recognised annual events that people can observe in and around the city of Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia. From horse racing to drag festivals, stargazing to film screenings, there's always something exciting and unique happening in this vibrant outback city.