Lilac City Festival relocates events due to heavy rain

Heavy overnight rain has forced organizers of the 75th Lilac City Festival to relocate several events in Goulburn. Due to wet conditions in Belmore Park, the opening ceremony was moved to the Goulburn Mulwaree Council foyer.

The ceremony, featuring actress and radio presenter Kate Ritchie, includes the crowning of the 2026 Lilac sovereign and various competition announcements. Other scheduled activities, such as the Youth Talent Show and the Regional Battle of the Bands, have been moved to the Hume Conservatorium.

While many Saturday markets were cancelled due to the rain, sunny weather is forecast for Sunday. The festival schedule includes a street procession on Auburn Street and a pet parade on Monday.