a tradition forged in gold, grit and community.
Parades have always been an important part of Beechworth’s rich history. From the early processions of Chinese miners and their colourful celebrations, to civic occasions, sporting events and community festivities, the streets of Beechworth have long been a place where people come together to celebrate, commemorate and share in the spirit of the town.
Every Easter Beechworth comes together to celebrate the legend of the Golden Horseshoes with our long weekend festival.
The Legend of the Golden Horseshoes
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In November 1855, freshly elected Legislative Council member Daniel Cameron made a legendary entrance into Beechworth - riding through the main streets on a horse shod with reported real golden horseshoes.
Spurred by victory, the local miners launched into wild celebrations, sharing countless pannikans of grog. A grand parade followed, featuring William Brown’s Circus Band, 80 riders on horseback, and hundreds marching on foot.
That evening, Beechworth’s vibrant Chinese community lit up the sky with the grandest fireworks display the town had ever seen - highlighted by giant, illuminated flying fish gliding through the night.
Today, that same spirit of celebration lives on every Easter long weekend through the Beechworth Golden Horseshoes Festival Grand Parade.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
The modern festival traces its roots back to the early 1960s, when the local Lions Club organized annual holiday parades that brought the community together.
In 2001, Beechworth Gold brought history full circle by commissioning local farrier Robert Bremner to craft a pair of solid gold horseshoes in the historic courtyard of the old Bank of Victoria.
That same year, the horseshoes took their place at the front of the parade, worn by the lead horse - a tradition that continues today.
When they are no longer leading the parade on Easter Saturday, the solid gold horseshoes are on display at Beechworth Gold.
Come visit during the Easter holidays to see them in person and immerse yourself in Victoria's rich goldrush history!
