Just an hour’s drive away from Perth CBD lies the historic Avon Valley.
The region is often known as the gateway to the Wheatbelt, with long stretches of scenic views, pioneering history, and fertile waterways of the Avon River, as well as an array of annual festivals and events. Planning a trip to the region? Be sure to mark your calendars with our round-up of the biggest events in Avon Valley in 2025.
Beverley Art Prize & Markets
When: 17 April 2025
Now in its 56th year, the Beverley Art Prize & Annual Art Exhibition will take place on Thursday 17 April, with the preview running from 10AM to 4PM and the official opening commencing at 7PM until 9PM. Offering generous prize money, the show is consistently praised for the quality of its artwork, attracting upwards of 300 paintings from some of the most talented artists Australia-wide. Held at the iconic art deco Beverley Town Hall, the exhibition is open daily for the duration of Easter weekend.

Northam Motor Sport Festival
When: 26-27 April 2025
The Northam Motorsport Festival is a free classic car event for all ages and is a major annual highlight of The Shire. Enjoy the history and spirit of classic racing cars and watch as the main streets of Northam are transformed into a circuit with classic racing cars competing in regular time trials. The event incorporates the Mount Ommanney hill climb, SCBC Motokhana on Saturday, and the Northam Flying 50 on Sunday.

Toodyay Moondyne Festival
When: 4 May 2025
This free annual event invites you to step back in time and embrace the pioneer spirit by donning period costumes – whether you choose to be a floozie, swaggie, or street urchin. The festivities come alive with street theatre, a colonial village, entertainment, artisan crafts, and healthy food stalls, promising non-stop, incredible fun for the entire family. As the Avon Valley's legendary bushranger, Moondyne Joe, takes centre stage, Toodyay transforms into a lively historical town, echoing with re-enactments of Joe's daring escapades, arrests, and mock trials. Join the merriment as Joe runs wild, robbing shops, escaping custody, and causing a delightful ruckus.

Toodyay International Food Festival and Family Fun Day
When: 9 August 2025
Join Toodyay's International Food Festival nestled on the banks of the Avon River in the heart of Toodyay with the perfect view of the Avon Descent. Choose from dozens of stalls offering an incredible range of international cuisine, a licensed bar and an assortment of sweet treats, ensuring there is something for everyone. There'll be live music, free bouncy castles and activities for the kids.
The Avon Descent
When: 9-10 August 2025
Join one of Western Australia's most iconic and longest-running multisport events! The Avon Descent is a 124km race travelling along white rapids through some of WA's most scenic regions including the historic towns of Northam and Toodyay, national parks, steep gorges, the Swan Valley and eventually, into the tidal waters of the upper Swan River. Competitors challenge in a variety of power dinghies and paddle craft including single, double and triple kayaks and single or double surf skis. Relay teams of 2 and 4 can also compete.

Transcend Trails Avon Valley
When: 16 August 2025
If you're the adventurous type looking for a challenge, the Transcend Ultra is a trail run through the entire Avon Valley. The 65km distance kicks off at sunrise in the Walyunga National Park and finishes at Cobblers Pool, near Toodyay. The course travels through 4 parks and can be run solo or as a relay in teams of 2 - 5 people. As well as the Ultra distance, there is also a 40km hike, a 6km trail hike & fun run option.
Toodyay Picnic Races
When: 21 September 2025
Get ready for a weekend of thrills and tradition as the Toodyay Picnic Races return in 2025! This lively event promises exhilarating horse races, delicious food, local crafts, and live entertainment. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled day of cheering on the horses and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Northam Cup
When: 26 October 2025
The 2025 Northam Cup has announced that the race will be held on Sunday 26th October, at Northam Racecourse. Nestled in the Avon Valley, the Northam Racecourse is located on the eastern border of the town, on the edge of the Mortlock River. The track is considered one of the best winter tracks in Western Australia, hosting approximately 25 meetings per year from May to November.
Check back in for more details on the event closer to the date.
Don't miss out on the biggest events that Avon Valley has to offer this year. From cultural festivals to motorsport races, you'll have no trouble finding something memorable for all ages.