Hastings Blossom Festival 2006
This is the best year to head off to Hastings, with the region's double celebration: Hastings Blossom Festival and Hastings 50th birthday celebration. This is a once-in-a-lifetime Hastings festival. If you miss this, you will have to wait another 50 years!
Hastings Spring Festival 2006
Annual Hastings Festival
The annual Hastings spring festival, running from 15-24 September, celebrates the arrival of spring. This year's line up is even bigger than usual as it coincides with Hastings 50th birthday celebration. Many of the events are inspired by, or take us back to 1956, the year that Hastings officially became a city.
This year's Hastings festival has an entertainment line-up that captures some of New Zealand's most talented individuals. A good proportion of the events are free, and family friendly, the highlight for many being the parade running through the central city. Another popular one with the kids is the Blossom Carnival, a fairground full of sideshows and thrilling rides.
Hastings Spring Festival Highlights
AMI Insurance Drive-In Movie - Friday 15 September
The place to be seen the in the 1950s—the drive-in movie is back! Sit back and watch Some like it Hot, a classic 1950s black and white movie on the big screen, from the comfort of your own car. Pedestrians are also welcome, just remember to bring your deck chair and transistor radio.
Ngati Kahungunu Kura Tuarua Tu Tangata Whakataetae 2006 - Friday 15 September
Hawke's Bay Secondary Schools Tu Tangata Competitions 2006. Students have 14 members and 14 minutes to wow the judges with their interpretation of contemporary Māori performing arts.
Johnny Devlin - Saturday 16 September
New Zealand's original King of Rock 'n Roll will play a selection of his greatest hits and other rock 'n roll favourites. Don't forget to bring your dancing shoes!
Blossom Parade Day - Saturday 16 September
This is an excellent family day out to watch the celebration. Entertainment starts at 10:00 am on the city stage. The parade starts at 1:00 pm, where you will enjoy floats, brass and pipe bands, marching teams, acrobats, and much more passing by.
Fireworks - Saturday 23 September
This free fireworks display is an excellent opportunity to put together a picnic dinner and dig out your deck chairs.
While you're in town, don't forget to check out the Hastings 50th birthday celebration.
