Hair Festival, Oceania’s premier event exclusively for the hairdressing community, took place over the weekend. With an all-new location at Sydney’s ICC and date, the 2024 edition saw astronomical growth, with 6,100 attendees visiting the event – a 30 percent increase on 2023.

Organised by BHA Media, a subsidiary of Intermedia Group, Hair Festival is is a highly anticipated annual event for the Australian and New Zealand hairdressing industry. BHA Media is a prominent B2B publisher with a portfolio of highly respected beauty titles including ProCollective, Styleicons, Professional Beauty, and SPA+CLINIC.

“The turnout and feedback have been sensational,” shared Festival Director Renita Collins. “It’s been fantastic to watch Hair Festival grow every year. We knew changing not just the venue but dates were going to be a risk, but it was one that was well worth it. This year truly showcased the diversity and the very best of the exceptional hair industry.”

“The hairdressing community defines camaraderie, creativity and innovation and Hair Festival 2024 brought all of that together through product, demonstrations and innovation highlighted throughout the show floor, education sessions and competitions with enthusiasm and energy that only the hair industry knows how to bring,” she added.

The Festival Hub, which was free to enter, served as the epicentre of the event, with over 90 brands showcasing the latest in business, technology, care and colour, hair extensions, tools, salon furniture, straightening services, men’s hair and philanthropy amidst the Barber Hub, Business Hub and show floor. Meanwhile, THE STAGE., presented thanks to Artègo and Pivot Point, hosted bite-sized education sessions, competitions and demonstrations, with attendees eager to learn and be inspired by industry experts.

The education rooms were a testament to this industry’s penchant for growth. 20 sessions across business, colour, style, hair extensions, barbering and beyond saw busy rooms ready to learn, ask questions and be inspired. From bold creative looks thanks to local and international talents, to key business insights, social media tips, pricing know-how and even life lessons, it was an inspirational experience, both on and off the stage.

The live Hair Festival Competitions saw a stellar turnout, with an all-new time slot of Monday morning and location of THE STAGE. Sponsored by O&M, new categories, cash prizes and a new awards structure, that decided the Hair Festival Champion, amidst style, barber and emerging talent, elevated the platform. A large crowd watched hairdressers compete, show off their looks and then win, bringing the live competition scene fully back to life at the Festival Hub.

Wonderland, held at The Establishment bar, provided a vibrant and fun-filled atmosphere for attendees to celebrate Rogue Beauty’s tenth anniversary. The event featured live music, delicious food, photo opportunities, and flowing drinks, creating a memorable experience for all.

Sustainability was once again a key focus of Hair Festival 2024, with partnerships with Sustainable Salons and Waste Free Systems promoting conscious recycling and waste management.

With plans for Hair Festival 2025 in the works, attendees can look forward to another exciting and inspiring event.

For more information visit www.hairfestival.com.au