Toodyay Moondyne Festival 2024
Toodyay Moondyne Festival - Sunday 5th May 2024, Toodyay, Western Australia
A Day in the Past
On Sunday 5 May 2024 the historic town of Toodyay in Western Australia once again transformed into a lively celebration of its colonial past and the legendary bushranger Moondyne Joe. The Moondyne Festival, held annually on the first Sunday in May, filled the main street (Stirling Terrace) and surrounding precincts with period costumes, street theatre, artisan stalls and heritage-style fun.
Entry to the festival was free for the day.
What to Expect at the Toodyay Moondyne Festival
The festival offered a rich array of attractions bringing the town’s past to life:
- Street theatre and re-enactments: Moondyne Joe and his gang made appearances, mock arrests and trials took place, and costumed actors roamed the street engaging with the audience.
- Costume participation: Visitors were encouraged to dress in pioneer-era attire swaggies, floozies, town criers, temperance ladies to add to the immersive atmosphere.
- Heritage demonstrations & colonial village: Blacksmithing, wood-chopping, vintage displays and a “colonial village” area allowed visitors to explore the trades and lifestyle of the era.
- Market stalls, food & crafts: The event featured artisan stalls, healthy-food vendors, flea-market style displays, and classic family-friendly rides/games.
Why It’s Worth Attending
- Immersive heritage experience: The atmosphere is authentic and theatrical, recreating the 19th century setting of the Avon Valley region, centred on Moondyne Joe’s legend.
- Great for families: With interactive demonstrations, roaming entertainers, street theatre, food and crafts, there is something for all ages.
- Community & local flair: The festival is organised by local community groups, taps into Toodyay’s historic charm, and supports local vendors and heritage preservation.
- Photo-worthy setting: Costumed participants, historic buildings, street parades and quirky characters make for memorable visuals and great photo opportunities.
Planning Your Visit
- Getting there: Toodyay is approximately 85 km north east of Perth (about a 1-1½ hour drive depending on traffic).
- Arrive early: To secure parking and a good vantage point for parades or street theatre, arriving early is recommended.
- Dress up: Wearing costume is optional but encouraged as it enhances the experience and many attendees participate.
- Bring cash: While many stalls may have card facilities, some smaller vendors may prefer cash so it’s wise to carry some.
- Weather & outdoor readiness: As an outdoor event, bring sunscreen, hats, water, and perhaps a light jacket (depending on weather) for comfort.
- Explore beyond the festival: While in town, consider exploring Toodyay’s heritage sites (old gaol museum, pioneer buildings) for a fuller experience.
A Bit of Context & Heritage
The Moondyne Festival began in 1984 and has become a signature regional event in Western Australia. It centres on the folklore of Moondyne Joe, famed for his daring escapes and bushranging exploits in the Avon Valley region. For visitors, the festival offers more than entertainment it offers a vivid portal into Western Australia’s colonial past, brought to life with humour, drama and community spirit.
The Moondyne Festival is held every year on the first Sunday in May to celebrate the life and times of Moondyne Joe, WA’s infamous bushranger. The Festival usually attracts an attendance of between 5,000 and 10,000 people, the majority of which are families.Â
It’s one of those days when the past comes alive, with fun, costumes and storytelling woven through the town’s historic streets.
For more information or to book a stall visit:Â https://moondynefestival.com.au/
Our photos from Toodyay Moondyne Festival 2024
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Author - Jodie Lowen
Jodie Lowen is the owner of Wheatbelt Kids and a mother of two. She lives in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia and has worked in education for many years. Jodie is passionate about social media marketing and using online platforms to build community connections.
