East Gippsland Winter Festival’s epic 2025 program is now live.
This year’s winter festival runs from June 20 to July 20 2025, with a line-up of annual favourites and new, exciting events added to the program of unique art, culture, food, nature and wellness experiences.
This year’s program includes:
June 21: Yoga at the Cellar Door, Nicholson – This sell out event is back in 2025.
One of the most picturesque yoga “studios”, the stunning Nicholson River Winery, hosts a Vinyasa flow practice, followed by wine
and cheese as the sun sets on the stunning “Nicho River”
June 28: Nanna Skillz Masterclasses, Bairnsdale – Preserve the preserve. This hands-on preserving class will upskill you, Nanna style.
July 18: Snowy Steampunk Soiree, Orbost –Twilight drinks, steampunk style, on the newly restored Snowy Rail Bridge. Enjoy steaming spiced bevvies, live music, with an unforgettable atmosphere at an incredible location.
July 5, 6, 12, 13 and 19: Raymond Island Koala Tours, Paynesville – This one hour guided walking tour of the Raymond Island Koala Trail guarantees you will see koalas in their natural environment.
June 20 to July 20: Bluey and Bingo Light Up, Lakes Entrance – Join Bluey and Bingo on an illuminated winter adventure. A magical stop for kids and grown-ups alike.
June 27: ROUGE – A Circus for Grown Ups –
A decadent blend of sensational acrobatics, operatic cabaret and tongue-in-cheek burlesque.
With locations ranging from the Far East at Cape Conran, Orbost, and Bemm River, up to the high country in Omeo and down to shores of the Gippsland Lakes in Paynesville, locals and visitors alike can explore the renowned region while experiencing a series of unique winter festival events.
Encompassing the Victorian and New South Wales school holidays, there is a vast range of family friendly events for the whole family to enjoy from lantern parades, markets, art classes, exhibitions, ice-carving demonstrations, nature tours and more.
Originally created as a response to the devastating Black Summer Bushfires, festival founder Adam Bloem says the growth of the winter festival over the past five years has
been incredible.
“It’s been amazing to see the winter festival grow over the last five years. We’re constantly blown away by the support of the local community and our wonderful festival partners and sponsors,” Mr Bloem said.
“With so many people working together, the festival is now delivering a big impact with significant economic and social benefits across the region.”
The economic, social and cultural importance of a major festival to the East Gippsland region is further recognised by the East Gippsland Shire Council.
“I’m proud to welcome the return of the East Gippsland Winter Festival in 2025 for its fifth year,” mayor, Cr John White said.
“The festival has established itself as one of Australia’s premier winter events and a highlight of our cultural calendar.
“Council is proud to support the festival with $50,000 in annual funding because we know the impact it has – boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and uniting our communities.
“I encourage everyone to come and experience ‘How We Winter’ in East Gippsland – it’s not to be missed.”
