Thinking of hibernating for the winter? Think again! The annual East Gippsland Winter Festival is returning for the fourth time, celebrating art, food, culture and nature over one glorious month. With over 100 events to look forward to, there’s a lot of reasons for you to drive out of Melbourne and explore the region this winter. Expect a series of free events, family-friendly activities, picturesque locations and more. The East Gippsland Winter Festival will start on Friday June 21 and end on Sunday July 21.
East Gippsland Winter Festival
This year, there’s over 100 events to look forward to around the East Gippsland region. Discover live music in unexpected places, lakeside wellness experiences, hearty winter feasts and more.
“Our region’s culture has a chance to shine thanks to the East Gippsland Winter Festival,” said East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Tom Crook. “The festival is a fantastic showcase of our region’s people, places, food – a celebration of the best of our shire. So, mark your diary and join us for our month-long journey through art, performance, music and community connection.”
Highlights include:
World Bathing Day Sunrise Bathe & Picnic Breakfast
When: June 21
Watch the sunrise from the Hilltop Escarpment of Metung Hot Springs, while you bathe and picnic above the lake.
Medieval Winter Fire Festival
When: June 22
Head to Bruthen for their Medieval Winter Fire Festival, and look forward to roaring bonfires, medieval costumes, sword fights, music and feasts.
High Country Lunch at Moscow Villa Hut
When: June 24 to 26
Go to a high country hut at Nunniong, among the peaks of the alpine range, and enjoy an ‘off-grid’ lunch series hosted by local chef Stuart Derham.
Guy Grossi x Sodafish Collaboration Lunch
When: June 29
Head to Lakes Entrance for a winter feast inspired by local produce and Italian tradition. The lunch, ‘Inverno’, will be hosted by Guy Grossi and Nick Mahlook at the iconic Sodafish restaurant.
Stargazing & the Magical Milky Way Boat Cruise
When: June 29, July 5, 6 and 12
Hop on a boat from Paynesville to Ocean Grange for a nocturnal adventure. From Ocean Grange, you’ll go on a guided walk through the bush to Ninety Mile Beach, where you’ll gaze at the stunning winter night sky.
Lakes Lights: Enchanted Shores
When: July 6
Walk along the foreshore at Lakes Entrance and feel amazed by lantern sculptures, roaming performers and lighting projections. There will also be food trucks and live music to enjoy.
Water & Lights
When: July 13
See a lakeside lantern parade pass by lighting installations off the jetties of Paynesville. Then, find something at a food truck and relax at the outdoor cinema.
Deep In The Weeds at Sailors Grave Brewing
When: July 20
Sailor’s Grave Brewing’s ‘Deep in the Weeds’ festival is returning this year at a new venue. Head to the Marlo Hotel south of Orbost for punk rock and beer.
If you’re keen on checking out the East Gippsland Winter Festival, remember to book your accommodation early! Stay tuned to their website and socials for updates.