Say Bonjour to the Bendigo Art Gallery’s newest international exhibition!
Paris: Impressions of Life from 18-80 to 19-25 opened its doors over the weekend – showcasing 170 works of art from the Musée Carnavalet History Museum in Paris.
The city has embraced the Parisian theme with a tourism campaign, including a French change to the Bendigo sign.
The Bonjour Bendigo campaign will run for the duration of the exhibition.
Mayor Andrea Metcalf says that she sees as Bendigo the perfect place to host French-themed experiences and events because of the many similarities between the two cities.
“Even though Paris is on a much bigger scale, Greater Bendigo, and Paris both share a rich love of culture and heritage, elegant buildings and iconic landmarks, culinary and gastronomic delights, picture-perfect streetscapes and a thriving cafe culture,” Metcalf says.
“With so much in common, Bonjour Bendigo is a wonderful way to capture the joy of Paris this autumn and winter right here in Bendigo.
“Residents and visitors can make the most of a fantastic range of French-inspired events and experiences, together with themed food and drink menus celebrating the city of love and light.
“It is a red, white, and blue celebration with the tricolours of the French flag adding vibrancy around the region. I want to thank Bendigo Tourism members who have jumped on board to be part of this exciting campaign, embracing the theme in many innovative ways.
“There are themed menus, fashion, accessories, desserts, cocktails, attractions, and experiences. Bendigo accommodation providers have also put together curated deals, especially for visitors.
“The BENDIGO letters at the piazza have been transformed with the Bonjour Bendigo branding. The conservatory will be lit in French colours with red and white on the outside and blue on the inside, while one of Bendigo Heritage Attractions’ iconic trams will feature the Bonjour Bendigo branding. Bunting and flower boxes in French colours will also add to the streetscape vibrancy.
“Hargreaves Mall will have a range of Paris-themed and free activations to keep the family entertained including acrobats, jugglers, French-themed music, painting activities and much more during the exhibition period and the Easter holidays.
“This campaign will be a terrific way to encourage visitors to stay longer in our region and we are marketing Bendigo as a must-see destination over the coming months, particularly to Melbourne, regional Victoria, and Sydney.
“Our award-winning public activations, which celebrate blockbuster exhibitions at Bendigo Art Gallery, have become hugely popular over the years with residents and visitors, and they are now eagerly anticipated.”
For the full Bonjour Bendigo program, visit: https://www.bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo
