Asylum Fest
The Asylumfest will take place from Friday 23 October to Sunday 25 October 2026 at the Bijou Theatre, Mayday Hills, 22 Kurrajong Way, Beechworth, VIC 3747. Set within the atmospheric grounds of the historic Mayday Hills complex, this unique three-day festival celebrates horror, speculative fiction and pop culture in a setting that perfectly suits its eerie theme.
The festival features a range of activities for fans of horror and dark storytelling. Highlights include a feature horror film screening, author panels, book sales and signings, workshops and table-top gaming, along with trading stalls offering collectables, comics and pop culture merchandise. Writers, artists and fans gather throughout the weekend to share ideas, explore the genre and connect with others who enjoy all things mysterious and macabre.
One of the most popular events is the Mayday Hills Ghost Story Competition, where storytellers perform original ghost tales live in the theatre. Visitors can also take part in guided history or ghost tours around the historic former asylum grounds, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the festival experience. With its mix of literature, film, storytelling and pop culture, Asylumfest offers a memorable and atmospheric weekend in Beechworth.
