Each April, the Clarence Valley, Northern Rivers NSW, transforms into a month-long celebration of creativity for the Plunge Art & Culture Festival, 27 March - 30 April. 

With more than 120 events and experiences, the Plunge showcases the region's vibrant arts scene through workshops, exhibitions, live music, theatre and community events. From pottery wheels to paintbrushes, dance floors to main streets, the festival invites visitors to step in, try something new, meet artists and connect with the creative community in towns such as Yamba, Grafton, Maclean and more.

It's not just a festival. It's a region-wide invitation to meet the makers, share stories and get your hands delightfully messy.

What makes Plunge distinctive is that it builds on a cultural scene that thrives year-round. Plunge simply turns up the volume in April.

Take the Clarence Valley Public Art Trail and you'll quickly see why. More than 18 murals, sculptures and installations are woven through town centres and streetscapes, turning an everyday wander into an open-air gallery. 

Seven art galleries showcase local and touring exhibitions, while nine museums preserve and share the stories that shaped the region. Four heritage trails guide visitors through historic villages, river ports and coastal communities, where architecture and storytelling go hand in hand.

From coastal hubs to river towns, creativity here isn't confined to gallery walls. It spills into main streets, historic halls and open-air spaces. 

The free Plunge Festival Guide is available at local galleries, libraries and Council offices, and online. www.myclarencevalley.com/plunge-art-and-culture-festival/