Avon Descent

First held in 1973, 2025 marks the 52nd year of the Avon Descent – an incredible two-day, 124 km adventure river challenge from Northam to Bayswater. In addition to the legendary two-day race, there is a range of shorter events over the festival weekend, with something for everyone, regardless of skill level or time commitment. Support the water sportspeople from the banks of the Avon and Swan rivers as national and international competitors take on the challenge of white water, tight turns, and long flats. On Friday evening the Northam Bilya Festival offers exciting amusements, food stalls, live entertainment, and the ever-popular street parade. Cheer on the first contestants starting from 8am on Saturday morning. On Sunday, enjoy the City of Swan’s Avon Descent Festival at Caversham, or the City of Belmont’s Family Fun Day at Ascot, and the City of Bayswater’s event at the finish line. Combine all of the thrills and spills of the race with a fantastic entertainment line-up and you have a free fun-filled weekend for the whole family.