THE Mornington Peninsula is set to welcome a landmark new community event, with the inaugural Rye Community Festival taking place at the Rye Foreshore on Saturday, 2 May 2026 from 10am – 4pm. Free and open to all ages, the event is designed to celebrate the people, places, and spirit that make Rye such a special part of the peninsula.
Conceived as a community-first event, the festival will showcase local businesses, sporting clubs, creative makers, and community groups in a vibrant, inclusive coastal setting. The program has been carefully curated to offer something for every age and interest – from live music, DJ sets, and roaming performers to children’s entertainment, hands-on workshops, and interactive community experiences.
“This is a reflection of Rye – it’s about connection, creativity, and community. We’re bringing together local talent, businesses, and families in a way that feels inclusive, relaxed, and truly representative of the Peninsula.”
Festival-goers can expect a full day of programming across entertainment, food, and community engagement.
The Rye Community Festival is proudly delivered as a single-use plastic-free event. Waste reduction initiatives, a dedicated wash station, and a commitment to responsible environmental practices are central to the event’s design, reflecting the community’s care for the Peninsula environment.
The festival is supported by the Mornington Peninsula Shire, the Rye Business Network, the Rye Community House, and the Rye Hotel.
Event Details:
Rye Foreshore
Saturday 2 May 2026
10 to 4pm
For event information, visit www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Events-Activities/Rye-Community-Festival
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 29 April 2026
