Thinking of hibernating for the winter? Think again! The annual East Gippsland Winter Festival is returning for the fifth 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 20 and end on Sunday July 20.
East Gippsland Winter Festival
This festival first began in response to the 2019/2020 bushfires, and has since grown over the past five years into a fantastic regional event. Look forward to over 100 events around the East Gippsland region, from Omeo in the High Country to Cape Conran in the far east.
Favourite events returning include:
Medieval Winter Fire Festival
When: June 21
Head to Bruthen for their Medieval Winter Fire Festival, and look forward to roaring bonfires, medieval costumes, sword fights, music and feasts.
Nicholson River Trestle Bridge Long Lunch
When: June 27
Indulge in the best produce, beer and wine that Gippsland has to offer, while taking in scenic views of the Nicholson River from the historic trestle bridge. You can also expect live music and desserts by Long Paddock.
Fire & Ice
When: July 5
Wander around the Metung Village Green and enjoy live ice sculpting and a blazing fire show, while looking over the waters of Bancroft Bay.
Lakes Lights
When: July 12
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.
Deep In The Weeds at Sailors Grave Brewing
When: July 19
Sailor’s Grave Brewing’s ‘Deep in the Weeds’ festival is returning this year. Head to Dunetown in Marlo and enjoy music, beer and delicious food.
New events to look forward to include:
Après Ski Party
Eight Acres and Albert & Co have teamed up to create an epic winter party in Lakes Entrance. Dress up in your après ski best and stay warm with mulled wine and hot toddies. You can also look forward to classic winter dishes, a roaring fire and a DJ.
Op Shop Ball
Dress up in your best clothes from the op shop and enjoy a night of dancing, food and music at The Monaro Centre in Cann River.
The Great Alpine Scarecrow Competition
Let your imagination run wild and create your own scarecrow in Swifts Creek. The Great Alpine Gallery will also run a scarecrow making workshop at the start of the festival. There will be prizes for the most creative piece.
Karen Martini x Sodafish
After hosting Guy Grossi last year, the beloved Sodafish restaurant in Lakes Entrance is collaborating with renowned chef Karen Martini for another mouthwatering winter feast. If you missed out on Guy Grossi last year, there are rumours that he will be back too.
Bottomless Cocktail Brunch
Sip your way through a bottomless cocktail brunch at Pier 70 on the waterfront in Paynesville. Bancroft Bay Distillery will showcase their signature spirits, including gin, vodka and agave, and you can expect some delicious food too.
The full program will be released in early May, so stay tuned to their website for updates. If you’re keen on checking out the East Gippsland Winter Festival, remember to book your accommodation early!