Grenfell prepares for a long weekend of 'Larrikins and Legends'

Grenfell, New South Wales, will host the Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts from 4 to 8 June, marking five days of literary, musical, and artistic celebrations in honor of Australia’s renowned writer. The festival, established in 1958, is one of the longest-running regional arts events in NSW, drawing visitors nationwide to explore Lawson’s legacy through exhibitions, competitions, and community activities. This year’s theme, *Larrikins and Legends*, reflects Lawson’s humor and the resilient spirit of Grenfell, where he was born in 1867. Festival president Belinda Power described the theme as ‘instantly Australian,’ capturing both Lawson’s writing and the town’s enduring character. The event features interactive displays, including a bronze statue of Lawson in the town center and a monument at his birthplace on the Grenfell goldfields. The festival kicks off on 4 June with the opening of art exhibitions and competition displays, followed by school activities, live entertainment, and an opening-night concert on 5 June. Saturday (6 June) will be the busiest day, with a street parade, market stalls, live music, and a country street party transforming Grenfell’s main street into a vibrant hub. Additional attractions include Cobb & Co coach rides, the Grenfell Car Show, and the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Show and Shine. Competitions in verse, short stories, painting, and photography remain a cornerstone of the festival, alongside traditional events like the Festival Queen crowning. Community displays, pub entertainment, and historical exhibits will also highlight Lawson’s influence on Australian arts, particularly through works like *The Drover’s Wife* and *The Loaded Dog*. Longtime residents Mary and Peter Moffitt, named the 2026 official guest couple, have ties to the festival dating back over 50 years, with Peter recognized in 2014 for his community service. The festival’s broad appeal ensures a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational activities, reflecting its role as a staple of Grenfell’s identity since Lawson’s time. From poetry readings to vintage motorcycle showcases, the event celebrates both the writer’s enduring legacy and the spirit of the regional community that preserves it.