The Plunge Arts and Culture Festival in the Clarence Valley on the NSW North Coast is a month-long celebration of creativity each April, offering travellers a rich program of exhibitions, performances, workshops and cultural experiences. Spanning more than 120 events, the festival invites visitors to immerse themselves in the region's vibrant arts scene while exploring welcoming towns, rivers and coastline.
What sets Plunge apart is its distinctly local character combined with professional calibre programming. Events unfold across galleries, theatres, heritage buildings, studios and unexpected outdoor spaces, showcasing both nationally recognised artists and the region's thriving creative community. From contemporary visual art and live music to hands-on workshops, open studios and family-friendly experiences, the program rewards curiosity and encourages meaningful connection with place and people.
Festival venues stretch from the Jacaranda City of Grafton to Maclean and the coastal villages of Wooli, Yamba and Iluka, placing visitors within easy reach of beaches, national parks and scenic river journeys. Many locations are accessible by road from the Pacific Highway, making Plunge an ideal stop on a North Coast itinerary. Rooted in community pride and the Valley's long artistic tradition, the festival transforms everyday spaces into cultural destinations. Travellers are invited to slow down, explore deeply and secure a place at one or more unforgettable events across the month.
