BendiGLOW Youthfest Event
What is BendiGLOW?
BendiGLOW Youthfest is a youth festival that celebrates young people. Designed by young people for young people, it’s an event built around their ideas and energy.
A key feature of the night is the finalist performances as part of the Battle of the Bands competition, where local youth bands take the stage to compete and showcase their talent.
The event also includes a youth and community market, with stallholders offering hands-on activities and information about local services, programs, and events available to young people across the region. It’s a chance to explore what’s out there, connect with organisations, and discover new opportunities. Throughout the evening, there are free activities to enjoy with friends, like inflatable laser tag, learn-to-skate sessions, and interactive games — all set within a UV-lit space that brings the night to life and puts the GLOW into BendiGLOW.
Attendance is welcome by young people, friends, families, the community, and anyone keen to support the next generation of music!
Battle of the Bands Finalist Competition
The BendiGLOW Battle of the Bands isn’t accepting applications just yet—but get ready! Entries will officially open mid‑year 2026, giving you plenty of time to gather your band, rehearse, write new music, and prepare your application.
This is your opportunity to perform live on a professional stage in front of a huge audience as part of Greater Bendigo’s biggest youth‑led music event. If you’re a young musician or part of a band from Greater Bendigo or anywhere across regional Victoria, this is your moment to level up.
There are amazing prizes on offer, including a $2,000 music recording voucher, exclusive Trash Cult merch, opportunities for future paid gigs, music equipment, radio interviews, and even a spot at GigFest.
Applications open mid‑year, and finalists will be announced in August. Selected artists will perform live at BendiGLOW Youthfest on the night.
What to Expect at BendiGLOW
From UV lights to giant games and live music, BendiGLOW is stacked with unforgettable experiences. Often featuring multiple activities, similar to the following listed below, that were at BendiGLOW Youthfest in 2025!
UV Face Painting
Get creative and stand out with glowing face and body art that lights up under blacklight.
Learn to Skate Sessions
Hit the pavement and give skateboarding a go with beginner-friendly workshops and support from skilled skaters.
Inflatable Laser Tag Arena
Step inside the glow dome and team up with friends for a high-stakes match in our huge inflatable laser tag arena.
Chill-Out Zone
Need to recharge? Our giant YO Bendigo bean bags are the perfect place to relax and take in the good vibes.
Youth & Community Stalls
Meet local youth groups and service providers, grab some giveaways, and find out about opportunities for young people across Greater Bendigo.
Live Music & Performances
Enjoy an epic lineup of young local artists performing live throughout the night - including the Battle of the Bands finalists taking centre stage.
Volunteer at BendiGLOW!
Aged 12–25 and keen to get event experience?
Volunteer with the YO Events team and help deliver BendiGLOW Youthfest 2026, plus plenty of other great youth events! You will gain hands-on experience in event planning and delivery and be part of a supportive, youth-led team that brings creative events to life in Bendigo for young people by young people.
Click here to learn more and sign up!
EOI - Stallholders
We are seeking stallholders from the youth, music, mental health, and community support sectors for BendiGLOW Youthfest 2026. This is an opportunity to connect with young people aged 12-25 to inform them of your relevant services, volunteer opportunities, events, and programs that support their growth, involvement, and connection within Greater Bendigo in a safe, inclusive environment.
To express interest or learn more, please email [email protected]
With the subject: "BendiGLOW Youthfest 2026 - Stallholder EOI" in the subject line.
EOI: Food and Drink Vendors – BendiGLOW Youthfest 2026
BendiGLOW Youthfest is inviting expressions of interest from food and drink vendors for next year’s event. We’re looking for vendors offering youth-friendly food (with low-cost options available) and non-alcoholic beverages to operate at BendiGLOW Youthfest 2026 in September. All vendors must hold relevant permits and insurance.
To express interest or learn more, please email: [email protected]
(Please include "BendiGLOW 2026 interested vendor" in the subject)
A Safe, Inclusive, Youth-Led Event!
BendiGLOW is a drug, smoke, vape, and alcohol-free event designed to be safe, welcoming, inclusive, and fun for everyone.
It’s proudly supported by Amplify, a Victorian Government initiative that empowers young people to lead the way in creating safe and engaging music and arts events in their communities. Is delivered by the City of Greater Bendigo Youth Development Team (YO Bendigo)
