Lennox Head will be buzzing with colour, flavour, music and community spirit this Saturday as the Love Lennox Festival returns — and organisers say this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet.

Festival Chair Michelle Bailey says there’s a real sense of momentum behind the 2025 festival, with new faces, new features, and a vibrant program of entertainment, food, and fun.

“It’s really got its mojo back this year,” she said. “We’ve got new businesses, new volunteers, and fantastic support from the community. The vibe is great.”

One exciting new feature this year is a free shuttle bus, sponsored by Ballina Buslines, to make it easier for festival goers to leave the car at home. The shuttle will run through Ballina, East Ballina, Skennars Head and into Lennox, with stops and details listed on the festival website. Riders can simply flag the bus from any official stop along the route.

The day kicks off bright and early with the beloved Doggy Fun Show, with registrations open from 8am in Lennox Park. Organisers are calling for early entries and promise plenty of quirky categories, including best-dressed dog.

Entertainment will be spread across multiple stages and includes everything from rock and blues to preschool performances and buskers.

Highlights include:

• Lennox Preschool and Lennox Primary on the Lennox Park stage from 10am
  
• Local favourites like The Mumblers, Serendipity, and JB Blues
  
• The Cauliflowers closing out the Lennox stage at 4:30pm
  
• A busking stage curated by Simon Chate, featuring exciting emerging talent
  

Of course, no Love Lennox Festival would be complete without the Tastes of Lennox — a $10 plate competition where local eateries compete for the title of best bite. QR codes at each tasting station allow visitors to vote for their favourite dish.

For those more into sipping than sampling, there’s also the “Bevvies of Lennox” trail, covering everything from coffee to cocktails. Voting in the bevvy contest puts you in the running to win a $700 luxury stay voucher.

“It’s about showcasing what our amazing village has to offer — the food, the creativity, the community,” Michelle said. “We’re grateful to all the businesses who’ve donated over $3,500 worth of raffle prizes this year. The response has just been phenomenal.”

The festival’s formal welcome by the Mayor takes place at 10am, and the Taste of Lennox winners will be announced at 3:30pm, just before the final musical acts wrap up the day.

So whether you’re coming for the dogs, the dancing, the food, or just the festive vibe — Love Lennox promises something for everyone this Saturday.

PICTURE: Final Countdown: The Love Lennox Festival committee gathers in Ross Park for an early morning run-through ahead of Saturday’s big event.