The 68th Alexandra Blossom Festival is set to dazzle once again from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 September 2025, bringing a vibrant celebration of spring to the heart of Central Otago.

As New Zealand’s longest-running festival, dating back to 1957, this cherished event continues to blossom with tradition, creativity, and community pride.

The festivities kick off on Friday evening (26 Sept) with the Fulton Hogan Mardi Gras on River Street from 6–9pm.

This free event promises live music, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display to light up the night sky. Also on Friday, adrenaline junkies can catch the FMX Spectacular and the quirky Round the Clock Race, setting the tone for a high-energy weekend.

Saturday promises to be a spectacular day, showcasing top quality entertainment, music, and community celebration at Pioneer Park.

Kicking off with the Contact Grand Procession at 11:45am along Centennial Avenue, where crowds will cheer on a dazzling array of decorated floats, community groups, and the Blossom Festival Princesses.

Kiwi music legends Jackie Bristow and Barry Saunders (The Warratahs). Photo: Supplied

But it’s at Pioneer Park where the day truly comes alive.

The main stage will host a stellar lineup of musical talent, headlined by Capitol City, a 10-piece Christchurch band known for their high-energy performances and rich, layered sound.

Joining them are Kiwi music legends Barry Saunders of The Warratahs and Jackie Bristow, along with local blues guitarist Paul Foulds, whose soulful riffs are sure to resonate with the crowd.

Festival-goers can expect a lively atmosphere with food vendors, market stalls, and the Senior Queen and Princes/Princesses competitions adding to the charm.

Children will be treated to a full day of entertainment on the Children’s Stage, featuring circus acts and crowd favourites including:

• Mullet Man – a comedic circus performer with a Bowie twist
• MiM – acrobatics and sparkle
• Wayne McEwan – the ever-popular Magic Guy
• Mr Heaphy – aerial artistry
• Mr Wozowski – clowning and laughs
• Emma Mackey – party games and interactive fun

Performer Emma Mackey. Photo: Supplied

Other Saturday highlights include the Parade of Trucks, Florrey’s Parade, and a bustling lineup of buskers and street performers, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The festival wraps up on Sunday with the Delta Garden Tour, a self-drive journey through Alexandra’s most beautiful private gardens, offering a peaceful close to a weekend of celebration.

With over 15,000 attendees expected, the Alexandra Blossom Festival continues to be a cornerstone of Central Otago’s cultural calendar — a joyful, flower-filled tribute to the spirit of spring and the strength of community.