The 2026 East Gippsland Winter Festival program has officially launched, with organisers tipping strong demand as more than 100 events go on sale across the month-long winter celebration.
Running from June 19 to July 19, the festival will again transform East Gippsland into a region-wide hub of art, food, music and cultural experiences, with events stretching from Glenaladale to Mallacoota.
Now in its sixth year, the festival has grown into one of regional Australia’s major winter events, attracting visitors and showcasing local businesses, producers and artists across the shire.
Festival founder Adam Bloem said the event’s continued growth reflected strong community involvement and regional pride.
“Reaching our sixth year is a significant milestone,” Mr Bloem 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.”
East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the festival continued to play an important role in the region’s tourism and community life.
“Council is proud to support the festival through its Pathways to Growth Program, recognising its growing impact on tourism, local businesses and community connection,” Cr Ashworth said.
“It’s wonderful to see towns across the shire come alive through the creativity and passion of locals.”
The 2026 program includes returning signature events such as the Nicholson River Trestle Bridge Long Lunch, Primal at The Forge Theatre in Bairnsdale, and Guy Grossi’s Inverno Part III at Sodafish in Lakes Entrance.
New additions this year include the High Country Hooch Scottish Festival, Idle Lake House’s Floating Cinema, Metung’s Igloo Dining Experience, and Paul West’s Ember and Ales Feast at Sailors Grave’s Dunetown.
Other highlights include the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place Twilight Tours, Saltwater X Bones clay and dining experience, and multiple long-table degustation events across the region.
Organisers say tickets for headline events are expected to sell quickly, with many returning experiences having sold out in previous years.
The festival will conclude on July 18 with a final “After Dark” wrap event at the Paynesville Hotel, featuring live music and regional acts.
The full program is available online.
