SATURDAY 5TH APRIL 2 - 6PM - SILVERDALE VILLAGE & PIONEER VILLAGE
A FREE event celebrating Silverdale's pioneering spirit with an unforgettable afternoon of heritage, fun, and community
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Step Back in Time & Celebrate Silverdale's Pioneering spirit
Join us on Saturday 5 April for a day packed with interactive heritage displays, live entertainment, market stalls, delicious food, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fantastic day out with family and friends, the Pioneer Festival has something for everyone.
Festival highlights
Live Music
From folk and country tunes that celebrate our pioneering roots to upbeat contemporary hits, the festival’s musical lineup will set the perfect mood for the festival.
Pioneer Heritage
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Silverdale’s very own Pioneer Village. Wander through beautifully preserved buildings, each telling the story of the early settlers who shaped our community.
dress up competition
Get into the festival spirit and dress like a pioneer for your chance to win fantastic prizes! Dust off those bonnets, braces, and boots, and join in the fun! This is your chance to showcase your creativity and immerse yourself in the theme.
Local Food and Refreshments
Savour delicious offerings from Silverdale’s best local food vendors, featuring a mouthwatering selection of classics and unique flavours, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Free Family Fun
Enjoy a dynamic lineup of activities and performances designed to delight visitors of all ages. Experience performances that entertain and bring history to life. Get hands-on with old-fashioned games and experience engaging demonstrations of pioneer-era skills.
Market Stalls & Shops
Explore a vibrant marketplace featuring a diverse range of vendors and stores, all proudly representing Silverdale’s local businesses. Support local, shop local, and celebrate the businesses that make our area special!
Stay up to date and add the Pioneer Festival to your calendar – RSVP now on our Facebook event!
Location & Festival Access
Entry to the festival will be from Wainui Road, where you’ll be welcomed into a world of pioneer-era fun, delicious food, and exciting activities.
FESTIVAL PROGRAMME
SILVERDALE VILLAGE
2.00pm-6.00pm
• Kids Activities
• Food trucks & vendors
• Market Stalls and Shops
ENTERTAINMENT STAGE
2:00 PM – Festival Opening with MC Nick Rado
2:30 – 3:15 PM – Chet & Melissa O’Connell – A dynamic duo bringing unmissable tunes
3:20 – 3:30 PM – Dress-up Competition Winners – Celebrate the best festival looks
3:30 – 4:00 PM – Jarred Fell Magician – Mind-blowing tricks & comedy
4:10 – 4:55 PM – Clover – Smooth sounds and great vibes
5:00 – 5:45 PM – The Renegades – High-energy music to keep the festival going
PIONEER VILLAGE
2.00pm-6.00pm
• Heritage Buildings & Demonstrations
• Gift Shop open
• Food & drink vendors
2.00pm – 4.00pm – FREE Face Painting, proudly sponsored by Westpac
2.15pm, 3.15pm, 4.15pm, 5.15pm – Wood Chopping Demonstrations
2.45pm and 3.45pm – Quick Fire Raffles
Important Info
Road Closure & Vehicle Restrictions
To accommodate the festivities, there will be a road closure in place, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Part of Silverdale St will be closed between 12pm to 7pm on festival day, Saturday 5 April 2025.
Vehicles already within the festival area at 12pm will have the opportunity to vacate the area before the festival begins. No moving vehicles will be allowed in the festival area from 1:30pm to 6:30pm for safety reasons.
PARKING
Parking will be available at Stella Maris School, Silverdale Mall and Silverdale Centre, as well as in the surrounding streets. Please be mindful of any time restrictions when planning your visit.
FAMILY FRIENDLY FACILITIES
Coast Community Trust will be open for baby changing and breastfeeding.
There’s also chillzones throughout the festival for those needing a rest. Find them on the festival map.
Get Festival Updates
Sign up to our newsletter to receive the latest Silverdale Pioneer Festival updates, full event programme details, and important information straight to your inbox!
Get involved
Be a part of the Pioneer Festival and connect with the community in a meaningful way!
We’re inviting local Silverdale businesses to showcase their products and services by securing a market stall, giving you the perfect opportunity to engage with thousands of festivalgoers.
If you’re looking to boost your brand visibility, we also have sponsorship opportunities available, allowing businesses to support this vibrant community event while gaining valuable exposure.
Whether you’re a retailer, food vendor, artisan, or service provider, this is your chance to be at the heart of the action. Join us in celebrating Silverdale’s heritage while growing your local presence!
Our Event Partners
Our Naming Sponsor:
Our Community Sponsors:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pioneer Festival a free event?
Yes! The Pioneer Festival is a free event, so everyone can come and enjoy the festivities. However, some activities, food, and market stalls will have items for purchase. If you plan to visit the Silverdale Pioneer Village, we kindly encourage a gold coin donation to support the preservation of this historic site. Your contribution helps keep the village and its stories alive for future generations.
Does the Pioneer Festival have a rain date?
No, the Pioneer Festival does not have a rain date. In the event of wet weather, some festivities may be adjusted or reduced, but we’ll do our best to keep the festival spirit alive! All updates, including any changes to the schedule, will be communicated via our Facebook event and page. To stay in the loop, we encourage you to sign up for email updates so you don’t miss any important announcements!
Where can I park for the Pioneer Festival?
Parking will be available at Stella Maris School, Silverdale Mall and Silverdale Centre, as well as in the surrounding streets. Please be mindful of any time restrictions when planning your visit.
Can I be a stallholder or sponsor the Pioneer Festival?
We’re inviting local Silverdale businesses to showcase their products and services by securing a market stall, giving you the perfect opportunity to engage with thousands of festivalgoers. If you're looking to boost your brand visibility, we also have sponsorship opportunities available, allowing businesses to support this vibrant community event while gaining valuable exposure.
