Tenterfield celebrates Peter Allen's legacy with four day festival

Story sponsored by the Tenterfield Chamber of Tourism, Industry and Business.

Peter Allen represents different things to different people. For some, he was a gay icon, a courageous trailblazer who put a relatable human face to both the LGBT community and the tragic AIDS epidemic of the 80s and early 90s.

To others, he's one of our nation's most cherished sons. An entertainer whose flamboyance and charm made him a defining voice of his generation. The Boy From Oz, who no matter how far or how wide he'd roam, he'd still call Australia home.

And, to an even younger generation, he represents that confusing moment when they first saw The Wolverine dancing around with maracas singing about Rio.

But no matter what your age or how you think of Allen, one thing is universally true, he has a legacy worth celebrating. That's why every year, his home town of Tenterfield, hosts a four day homage to their most famous and treasured former resident.

The Peter Allen Festival will take place between September 5 and 8, and will feature a full line up of high quality entertainment, celebrating his life, times and the music he left behind.

Here are our top five picks:

As camp as maracas and tender as Pete's gift to Livvy, 'I Honestly Love You', this 90 minute spectacular promises to be rollerskates, T-Birds, Pink Ladies, 80s jazzercise and an Oscar-winning song to boot!

Helpmann Award Winner Michael Griffiths and acclaimed cabaret darling Amelia Ryan celebrate the songs of Olivia Newton-John and Peter Allen in this dazzling tribute.

From humble small-town beginnings to world domination in sequins and jumpsuits, revisit all of their sing-a-long classics from Rio to Tenterfield, all the way to Xanadu and beyond.

There are many more fantastic events featuring live music. For more information visit: https://www.thepeterallenfestival.com.au/events-list/

No trip to Regional NSW is ever complete without first indulging with a plate of fresh, tasty, beautiful local produce.

Grab a meal, or a couple of tasting plates, and try street food grown and produced within the district at the Tenterfield Food and Wine Fair.

Relax with a glass of local wine, then pick up a homemade jam or gourmet spice mix to take home with you.

And, in the morning, don't miss out on the scrumptious Jackaroo's Breakfast. Eat some locally sourced bacon and eggs and take a guided tour of a working free-range pork farm, all whilst enjoying Peter Allen's classics, performed by festival artists.

The Tenterfield Food and Wine Fair.

Jackaroo's Breakfast

(Hot tip: While you're in town, you should also explore they great local producers and wineries. You're welcome in advance.)

Who doesn't love a garden party, especially LA style?

It's time to get dressed up as your favourite 70's or 80's Hollywood celebrity or musical icon for a 70's inspired garden party.

Relax in Bruxner Park and enjoy outdoor entertainment featuring acts from across the Peter Allen Festival weekend, with a licensed bar serving an array of local wines, beers and spirits. A seven-course Long Table Lunch will showcase local produce.

Just like his music, The Peter Allen Festival has something which will appeal to all ages, including plenty of good family fun for little ones.

Bring your picnic blanket to enjoy a free screening of the movie The Greatest Showman in a pop-up outdoor cinema in Bruxner Park.

Hugh Jackman (who played Peter Allen in 'The Boy From Oz') leads an all-star cast in this bold and original musical filled with infectious show-stopping performances that will bring you to your feet. The kids' too!

Inspired by the story of P.T. Barnum, the film celebrates the birth of show business with the story of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation (remind you of Peter Allen's story?)

And, don't forget to check out the Kids' Corner too. There will be lots of fun activities for kids with a lucky door prize every hour!

Greatest Showman

Kids Corner

No city festival is ever complete without the opportunity to dress up and throw a street party, especially not one in honour of the Boy From Oz.

Rouse Street will be alive with markets, street performers and musicians. So why not throw on a bright shirt, grab a pair of maracas and join in the fun?

Chill by the Commercial Boutique Hotel Stage or enjoy the scenery at Bruxner Park. There will be plenty of entertainment for all ages.

This year's Peter Allen Festival is guaranteed to be a great time for the entire family. So why not come on down to Tenterfield and celebrate the life of a true Australian treasure.

For more information, visit: https://www.thepeterallenfestival.com.au or find them on Facebook.

Story sponsored by the Tenterfield Chamber of Tourism, Industry and Business.