AsylumFest

AsylumFest is a quirky and beloved annual pop culture festival held in the historic town of Beechworth, Victoria. Taking place each October, the event is centred around the iconic Mayday Hills asylum precinct, lending a delightfully eerie backdrop to a weekend of all things sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and geek culture. From cosplay and collectibles to ghost tours and gothic markets, AsylumFest offers a unique blend of fun, fandom, and local history.

The festival features a packed program that includes guest speakers, themed panels, escape rooms, author talks, trivia nights, and film screenings. There’s a strong focus on Australian creators—writers, artists, and makers—celebrating the depth and diversity of local talent. For costume lovers, the cosplay parade is a major highlight, welcoming everyone from casual fans to full-on cosplay pros to strut their stuff.

One of the most distinctive aspects of AsylumFest is its setting. The atmospheric grounds and old hospital buildings of Mayday Hills add an extra layer of drama and intrigue to the weekend. Ghost tours, paranormal investigations, and dark history walks offer guests the chance to experience the site’s haunted heritage firsthand, making the event a unique blend of pop culture celebration and historic exploration.

AsylumFest is more than just a convention—it’s a gathering of passionate fans, creative minds, and curious spirits. Whether you’re into comics, cult classics, cosplay, or the paranormal, this festival invites you to embrace the weird and wonderful in a truly unforgettable setting.