Looking for an unforgettable, action-packed weekend? Get ready to celebrate one of Western Australia’s most iconic river races! We are thrilled to invite our community to the 2026 Avon Descent Finish Line Festival at Riverside Gardens.
Join Lay2 Real Estate on Sunday, 9 August from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm for a massive day. Free entertainment, incredible athletic feats, and family-friendly fun on the banks of the beautiful Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River).
Here is everything you need to know to make the most of your festival experience.
Witness the Epic Finish
Be part of the cheering crowd as support crews, spectators, and locals welcome paddlers and power craft crossing the finish line. These incredible athletes will have just completed a grueling 124km journey down the river, and the energy at the finish line is something you won’t want to miss!
Endless Entertainment & Attractions
While the river action takes center stage, the festival grounds will be buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere. Spend your day exploring:
Live Performances: Enjoy fantastic live music, roving entertainers, and a captivating traditional dance performance.
Delicious Eats & Local Finds: Stroll through a bustling array of community and market stalls, and grab a bite from a wide selection of gourmet food trucks.
Up-Close Encounters: Get a unique look at a real RAC rescue helicopter, marvel at Australian birds of prey, and discover fascinating local freshwater wildlife.
Free Family-Friendly Activities
There is absolutely no shortage of fun for the kids! Keep the whole family entertained with completely free activities, including:
Thrilling carnival rides and inflatable games
An adventurous outback maze
Face painting for the little ones
Toddler Zone: A dedicated soft-play area specially designed for children under 5.
Sensory Play: Let your kids’ imaginations run wild with the magical Freedom Fairies.
Need to Unwind? Visit the Quiet Zone
Festivals can be wonderfully overwhelming, so if you or your little ones need a break from the action, head over to the dedicated Quiet Zone. Facilitated by the wonderful members of the City’s Youth Advisory Council, this relaxing space features cozy bean bags and yarning mats where you can chill out and recharge.
Essential Event Details
When: Sunday, 9 August 2026 | 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Riverside Gardens (Parking, including ACROD bays, is available via Milne Street).
Cycling down? Extra bike racks will be provided for those choosing to pedal to the event!
Furry Friends: Dogs are more than welcome to join the fun, provided they remain on a lead at all times.
A Greener Festival
In proud partnership with Lotterywest and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ (DBCA) Plastic Free Riverpark program, the City is working hard to eliminate single-use plastics at its events.
How you can help: Please bring your own reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers to help us champion a more sustainable, eco-friendly event!
Ready to plan your day?
For more details on the big day, visit the official event page at bayswater.wa.gov.au/avon-2026.
See you at the finish line!