Planning a function or a special occasion? We have the answer….
One of the state’s most anticipated celebrations returns this winter with a wealth of immersive experiences for everyone to enjoy.
Think: long lunches, a floating cinema night, a Masquerade ball, candlelight yoga and everything in between.
From 19 June to 19 July, more than 100 events will light up towns and landscapes across the region as The East Gippsland Winter Festival transforms the region into a glowing playground of art, food, music, culture and creativity.
Visitors are invited to embrace the chill of the season and revel in the magic of winter’s long, dark nights with fires crackling, lanterns glowing and stories unfolding.
Festival goers can look forward to the return of much-loved festival favourites, including the luminous Lakes Lights lantern parade and magical wonderland of larger-than-life lantern sculptures, the action-packed Bruthen Medieval Festival, the iconic Nicholson River Trestle Bridge Long Lunch, alongside a smorgasbord of new experiences ready to be discovered.
Last year, more than 33,000 people attended over 130 events across 30 towns in East Gippsland for the festival. That number is expected to grow as the festival continues.
Originally created as a response to the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer Bushfires, Festival Founder Adam Bloem said the growth of the Winter Festival over the last six years has been incredible.
‘Reaching our sixth year is a significant milestone,’ Adam said. ‘Thanks to the incredible contributions of so many people and organisations, the East Gippsland Winter Festival has grown into a flagship event for the region, driving visitation, supporting local businesses and artists, and fostering joy and a strong sense of community resilience.’
The economic, social and cultural importance of a major festival to the East Gippsland region is further recognised by the East Gippsland Shire Council’s ongoing support.
Mayor of East Gippsland Shire Council, Cr Jodie Ashworth, said the festival highlighted the strength and spirit of communities across the region.
‘Council is proud to support the festival through its Pathways to Growth Program, recognising its growing impact on tourism, local businesses, and community connection. Now a standout on our regional events calendar, it’s wonderful to see towns across the shire come alive through the creativity and passion of locals. I encourage everyone to come and experience ‘How We Winter’ in East Gippsland.’
This ambitious winter celebration is made possible thanks to contributions from the local community and the continued support of festival partners. The East Gippsland Winter Festival is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the State’s Regional Events Fund and the East Gippsland Shire Council via the Pathways to Growth event program.
The 2026 East Gippsland Winter Festival will run from 19 June to 19 July.
For more information, including the full program list and ongoing updates, www.egwinterfest.com.au, or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.
To book accommodation for your stay during the festivities, visit www.visiteastgippsland.com.au
Exciting new events hitting the program in 2026 include
27 June: High Country Hooch Distillery, Glenaladale – get your kilts ready for the ultimate Scottish cèilidh (party!) with traditional Scottish foods, music, dancers, storytelling and a large bonfire. There will be bagpipes, drums, fiddles, and whisky, of course! BYO musical instrument to join in the fun.
28 June: Echo Bend Camp Park, Glenaladale – Take “Winter Adventure” to a whole new level in the wilderness of the Mitchell River National Park! Join experienced guides for a 10km paddle down the river in a packraft, with lots of rapids, adrenaline, fun and a gourmet lunch along the way!
10 July: The Riversleigh, Bairnsdale – step into a mysterious winter wonderland inspired by the elegance of yesteryear. Dress up and dance the night away with live music in an atmosphere of alluring opulence. Formal attire and masks are a must!
12 July: Sodafish, Lakes Entrance – Two chefs. Two corners of Victoria. One unforgettable lunch. Bodee Price, hatted chef of Brown Brothers Winery in Milawa, joins Nick Mahlook, owner and head chef of Sodafish in Lakes Entrance to serve up a four-course lunch with matching wines, where seasonal garden produce meets coastal bounty, and it’s all coming together over a floating fire!
18 July: Paynesville Hotel, Paynesville – close out the festival with an epic wrap-party at one of the region’s longest-standing watering holes. Featuring a stellar lineup of Australian bands and local musicians bringing high-energy performances to wrap up the sixth annual festival in style!
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