Spring is almost here, and there’s already some magnificent flower festivals for us to look forward to, such as the Tesselaar Tulip Festival in the Dandenong Ranges, and the Cherry Blossom Festival in the Yarra Valley. If you’re keen to start admiring the blooms, why don’t you drive an hour away from Melbourne to explore the Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival? Celebrate the start of spring with daffodil displays, open gardens, markets, art exhibitions and more! This wholesome country festival is on from Friday September 5 to Sunday September 14.
Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival
This festival dates back to the 1950s, when the peak season for daffodil growers around Victoria coincided with the Kyneton Show. As time went on, growers would prepare to showcase their blooms at the Kyneton Show, transforming the event into the celebration that we see today.
Admire these pretty flowers at the Spring Daffodil Show on Saturday September 6. Entry is free, and you’ll find plenty of daffodil displays, as well as a mini market with handmade goods and produce.
Throughout the festival, walk along Burton Avenue, or the ‘Golden Mile of Daffodils’, and see more bright blooms. This daffodil display was first planted in 1988. Explore a variety of Open Gardens around Kyneton and the surrounding areas, such as Kyneton Botanical Gardens. One of these spots, known as The Artful Meadow in Lyonville, will also allow you to pick your own flower bouquet with daffodils and spring bulbs for an additional price. You can explore these Open Gardens at your own pace, or opt for a bus tour.
More highlights
- Markets and fairs – Throughout the festival, there will be antique fairs, farmers markets and craft markets for you to explore.
- Exhibitions – See artworks dedicated to daffodils, knitted pieces, photos and more on display.
- Dog Dash – See adorable dogs of all sizes and breeds race in a 40-metre dash on Sunday September 7.
- Grand Parade and Fair – The festival will end with a bang on Sunday September 14 with their parade and fair. Look forward to plenty of colourful characters and enchanting moments.
See the full program here.
Getting there
You’ll find Kyneton in the Macedon Ranges, just an hour away from Melbourne. If you don’t feel like driving, you can take the V/Line for about one hour and 15 minutes on the Bendigo line. After enjoying the festival, continue to explore the Macedon Ranges. Walk around Hanging Rock with a llama by your side, admire the stunning Trentham Falls, or continue west to relax in the newly reopened Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.