This year, the theme is “21 years of being out and proud,” with the five day program boasting more than 50 events. 

From bingo, bush walks and bike rides to exhibitions, exquisite dining experiences, dance parties, comedy and drag, the party this year is bigger than ever.

Singers Ladyhood, Monique Brumby and Nat Alison will be present, as will artist Casey Freeman for Cream 2018 while comedians Geraldine Hickey, Adam Richard and Sue Ann Post will also perform.

Since its humble inception in 1997, ChillOut has grown to become Hepburn Shire’s largest and longest running festival. 

The party kicks off on Thursday, March 8 with Tickle Me Pink: The Legends at the Glenlyon Estate.

The opening night event, including dinner, camp entertainment and modern pop tunes from DJ Trudi is hosted by Frock Hudson with entertainment from drag legends Miss Candee, Rita La Coqueta and Sue Ridge. 

From midday Friday, Bellinzona Grange at Hepburn Springs will host a fun-filled afternoon of wining and dining for the Lavish Lunch. All funds raised will be donated to the Daylesford SES. 

On Friday evening, disco queens and Kylie Minogue fans will dance the night away to DJ Dozza’s 1980s tunes at the Out and Proud Disco at Daylesford Town Hall.

There will be a special performance of the Australian Kylie Show.

Saturday is bush dance day, with the Kids Bush Dance taking place during the day followed by the Bush Dance for big kids in the evening. There will also be a Pink Flamingo Pool Party at Daylesford pool.

On Sunday, the community will come together with the ChillOut Pride Parade, ChillOut Carnival and the Poof Doof.

The festival will wrap up on Monday afternoon at the International Women’s Day Dance with the Citrus Sistas.

Throughout the festival, local businesses including the Daylesford Hotel, Hepburn Hotel, The Perfect Drop and Farmers Arms will fly the rainbow flag with pride while hosting a number of events.

For more information, visit the ChillOut Festival website.