Gorgeous Hervey Bay, named the first official Whale Heritage Site back in 2019, is the perfect winter escape, thanks to its awe-inspiring, up-close whale watching encounters. So much so that they hold the annual Hervey Bay Whale Festival to celebrate these majestic creatures!
Between July and October, thousands of humpback whales travel the ‘humpback highway’ and arrive in the calm, protected waters of Hervey Bay. Unlike any other place along the ‘humpback highway’, the whales will stop and spend up to 10 days resting, socialising and playing before continuing their trip back to the Antarctic for the summer months.
This unique relationship is what inspired the Hervey Bay Whale Festival. This eclectic event recognises the importance of the ocean to the coastal town and promotes the conservation of the marine environment and animals that are unique and important to the region.
What to expect
The Hervet Bay Whale Festival kicks off with the annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony at the Urangan Harbour. During the event, attendees can get to know the local Whale Fleet and vessels up close and enjoy family-friendly activities, with children’s entertainment, food and market stalls, live music from Rave The Bay, and more!
The highlight of the day is a float-by of the Whale Fleet and other boats, receiving blessings from a local minister to ensure safe and successful tours during the upcoming whale-watching season, and a jaw-dropping Jetpack performance over the water as the cherry on top.
It’s not just for entertainment: The Blessing of the Fleet is steeped in history, tracing back to the Mediterranean fishing villages where communities sought blessings for protection and prosperity at sea. Where better to carry on that tradition than the whale watching capital of Australia?
And that’s just the beginning. Up next, the City and Sea event is a jam-packed day of fun and excitement with three amazing events all in one! With city park festivities to begin with, featuring market stalls, live music and a make-your-own-lantern workshop, you’ll be starting the day off on the right foot.
Then, head down to the seafront for thrilling carnival rides, mouthwatering food and live entertainment. And, finally, close out an incredible experience with the magic of the Parade of Lights. With the theme of Ocean Glow, you can be part of something truly unforgettable, as the glowing procession makes its way down Main Street and ends in a spectacular fireworks finale!
To round out such an unforgettable festival connect with yourself, the community, and nature at Paddle Out for Whales. You can start the day out by mimicking the ebb and flow of the ocean with a free 1-hour yoga class.
Once centred, you’ll be in the perfect mood to enjoy live music, food stalls, and free mini golf while soaking up the beautiful coastal atmosphere! Then it’s time for the crown jewel of the day: the Paddle Out Ceremony, where paddlers on paddleboards, kayaks, or surfboards take to the water and form a circle in a moving tribute to the whales. This includes a minute of silence and a flower release, offering a meaningful moment of reflection and appreciation for these incredible marine visitors.
Rooted in history and purpose, Paddle Out for Whales began as a peaceful protest during the early days of Hervey Bay’s whale-watching legacy. What started as a heartfelt tribute to whales lost to whaling has grown into a powerful movement of hope and action, with every flower cast into the sea symbolising remembrance and resilience.
Practical information
This year’s Hervey Bay Whale Festival will take place on Friday, July 10 (Blessing of the Fleet), and on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30 (City and Sea, and Paddle Out for Whales, respectively).
All events are free to attend, though if you want to participate in the Parade of Lights, you must register here, and registration for Paddle Out for Whales will soon open here. You will also be able to pre-order a 2026 Paddle Out for Whales t-shirt.
