Lifestyle
29 April, 2026
Rabbits Eat Lettuce Delivers Major Easter Success
The Rabbits Eat Lettuce Festival has marked a standout debut at its new riverside home near Texas, drawing close to 5,000 people over the Easter Long Weekend and delivering a major boost to the local community, economy and tourism.
Set along the banks of the Dumaresq River at Bushland Hideaway, the 2026 edition was widely praised by patrons for its stunning natural environment, with shaded dancefloors, pristine swimming holes and an immersive bushland venue creating a uniquely Australian festival experience.
By day, festivalgoers cooled off in the river beneath towering gums, and by night, the forest transformed into a vibrant, illuminated wonderland of music and art.
Emergency services reported positive outcomes across the weekend, with strong cooperation between organisers, patrons and authorities contributing to a safe and well-managed event. There were no serious incidents recorded. One medical evacuation occurred following an anaphylactic reaction to a green ant bite; the patient was treated promptly by onsite medical teams and airlifted safely to Toowoomba Hospital, where they made a full recovery.
Local towns including Texas, Yelarbon and Inglewood experienced record Easter trade, with thousands of visitors travelling through the region. The Texas Foodworks reported its biggest trading day on record, while the festival injected hundreds of thousands of dollars directly into the local economy through contractors, suppliers and event services.
Community feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive, with local businesses, residents and Goondiwindi Regional Council welcoming the positive economic and cultural impact.
After 17 years of operation across New South Wales and Queensland, Rabbits Eat Lettuce may have found its long-term home near Texas, a fitting destination given the region’s historic ties to rabbit trapping.
Festival organisers have expressed their gratitude to the local community, emergency services and attendees for helping deliver one of the most successful editions in the event’s history.
