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The Castlemaine State Festival has a proud history of creating exceptional and memorable arts experiences for the region’s young people – and this 50th Anniversary event will be no exception.
The 2026 Festival once again invites all primary and secondary school students from across Mount Alexander Shire to participate in an inspiring cultural, visual arts and physical programs by outstanding local, national and international artists and creative leaders.
The series of incursion and excursion experience include:
The Nalderun Songbook Project
A special partnership with the Nalderun Educational Aboriginal Corporation, will see children discovering and learning songs that will connect them to Djarra culture – with the songs learnt being performed as part of the Festival’s opening ceremony.
All At Once…
Presented by SciArty, this hands-on art-making program connects students with artists, scientists and makers to explore the connections between creativity, curiosity and the natural world.
King of Chinese Acrobats – Cho Kairin
A jaw-dropping performance experience for students who will have the rare opportunity to experience acclaimed CHO KAIRIN, King of Chinese Acrobats, sharing his artistry which has been passed on from a family of famous Chinese Acrobats.