GRAFTON will be a bright shade of purple next weekend for the start of its annual Jacaranda Festival.
Now in its 82nd year, the festival runs from October 29 to November 6.
Street parades, markets, exhibitions and live performances are all part of the festival's nine day program.
The historical Schaeffer House homestead will open its doors from 10am -4pm throughout the festival. Visitors will be treated to tours of the museum and have the chance to view the beautiful gardens.
Rock n rollers can remember the good old days at Retrofest on October 30. Grafton's Market Square will pay homage to the 40s and 50s with classic cars, fashion and retro-inspired market stalls from 10.30am.
After Retrofest, music lovers can visit Saraton Theatre for an afternoon at the Proms presented by the Clarence Valley Orchestra and Chorus.
Love art? What about woodworking? The festival program includes several exhibitions including gem, embroidery and wooden boat displays.
One of the program's highlights is the Telstra Riverside Venetian Festival on November 4 from 5.30pm - 9pm.
The region's best local talent, including stilt dancers and fire twirlers, will be putting on a dazzling performance before the evening's fireworks display.
The following day, the CBD will be awash with sound and colour for the annual float procession followed by a picnic in the park.
For the full program visit http://www.jacarandafestival.org.au/
