From the Sorrento Solstice Festival to the East Gippsland Winter Festival, there’s lots of exciting events around Victoria to check out during the colder months. And there’s one coming up very soon that’s just one hour away from Melbourne. Escape to the Macedon Ranges and descend on the small town of Woodend for Australia’s longest-running winter arts festival. Back for its 21st year, over 90 artists will take over the village with live music performances, talks and more. The Woodend Winter Arts Festival will take place over the King’s Birthday long weekend, from Friday, June 5 to Monday, June 8.
Woodend Winter Arts Festival
This picturesque town will transform into a thriving cultural hub, with venues like St Ambrose Church and Woodend Community Centre hosting a series of events. Look forward to a program filled with classical and contemporary performances, family events, opera, theatre and discussions.
The festival will kick off with a jazz concert from Chris Johnstone and Mat Jodrell on Friday night. Then, check out a performance from accordion player James Crabb, who will take you on a thrilling journey through five centuries of music. Other highlights include Seraphim Trio, who will showcase four variations on a Schubert Waltz, and Accademia Arcadia, who will showcase Bach’s Musical Offering.
The whole family will enjoy a performance of 1001 Nights by Inventi Ensemble. Feel amazed as these musicians bring Scheherazade’s famous tales to life. Meanwhile, Victoria Hotel will host a dinner and a concert in Opera Unmasked: Arias and Anecdotes. Presented by The T-Shirt Opera Company, this entertaining event will welcome newcomers and demystify the world of opera.
Beyond the music, you can also check out the Words & Ideas program. Listen as notable writers and thinkers lead discussions on AI, the power of community, a chat about Beethoven and more. Stick around after the talks for book signings.
It’s recommended that you purchase tickets to the events beforehand, as they tend to sell out.
To see the program and learn more about the festival, click here.
What else can you do?
While you’re in Woodend, stay a little longer and soak in the country charm. Stay nice and cosy indoors by chilling out inside a pub or a restaurant. Find 16 beers on tap at Holgate Brewhouse, or warm up by the fire in The Victoria Hotel. Treat yourself to a vanilla slice from Bourkies Bakehouse, or enjoy a casual bite from Kuzu Izakaya. Warm up with a bit of wine tasting at venues like Hanging Rock Winery and 600 Above.
Brave the winter cold with an outdoor adventure, with Hanging Rock just a short drive away. Just outside of Woodend, you can also take a pleasant stroll along Five Mile Creek. The kids will have fun playing in Woodend Children’s Park.
The winter festival will also coincide with the community market, which takes place on the first Saturday of the month.
Getting there:
Wander over to Woodend for a quick day trip, or treat yourself to a peaceful weekend away. You can visit Woodend by car, which takes about an hour via the Calder Highway. You can also visit this town by using public transport! Simply hop on the V/Line from Southern Cross, and take the Bendigo line. The train ride takes about one hour, and Woodend Station is conveniently located near the main street.