What was originally known as the Australian Universities Arts Festival held in Sydney in 1967, Melbourne in 1969 and Canberra in 1971 became known as the Aquarius Festival and was held in Nimbin in 1973.

The festival was a counter-cultural arts and music festival oganised by the Australian Union of Students. The aims of the festival being to celebrate alternative thinking and sustainable lifestyles. The Aquarius festival was held over 10 days from 12 to 23 May 1973 and was the birthplace of Australia's hippie movement. It is also credited with being the first event which sought permission to use the land from Traditional Owners. It is estimated that between 5,000-10,000 people attended the festival.

Nimbin is a sleepy village approximately 60 km (37 miles) inland from Byron Bay being Australia's eastern-most point. It has a population of around 1,500. The festival had a lasting effect on the economy with many festival attendees deciding to remain in the area. With the sub-tropical climate and several national parks at their doorstep, it is easy to see why festival attendees aged from 18-80 were tempted to stay.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org