A JAM-packed program of events celebrating East Gippsland’s creative talents, local produce, culture, and natural environment is returning to the region this year, with the East Gippsland Winter Festival.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced the much-loved festival will return for its fourth year, and will run from Friday, June 21 to Saturday, July 21.
“This festival is a fantastic celebration of light, food, music, art and culture that is set to delight visitors from far and wide over several weeks of programming right across the region,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
The event is partially funded by the state government’s Regional Events Fund, which supports events that attract visitors from outside the region, create job opportunities and contribute to the local visitor economy.
This vibrant festival is a highlight on Victoria’s calendar of regional events, and attracts thousands of visitors from across Victoria and interstate to the region.
Adam Bloem, who is the East Gippsland Winter Festival founder and director, said the event was created in response to the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires, with the intention to attract visitors back to the region during traditionally quiet off-peak months.
“Now in its fourth year, the festival has grown into a highlight event for the region,” he said.
“We are excited to expand the event offerings further this year and attract even more visitors to experience the magic of winter in East Gippsland.”
There are more than 100 events on offer, including art installations, lantern parades, roving performers, wellness experiences, live music and regional dining experiences in unique locations across the region.
This year’s program features the festival opening party in Lakes Entrance, an epic Winter Solstice Swim by Gippsland Jersey alongside a magical Bruthen Medieval Winter Fire Festival and a lunch hosted by much-loved chefs Guy Grossi and Nick Mahlook at Sodafish.
With local businesses, artists, community groups and tourism organisations coming together to showcase the best of this vibrant and diverse region, the festival will see East Gippsland’s award-winning produce, cultural heritage, and stunning natural environment take centre stage.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said she was looking forward to another East Gippsland Winter Festival.
“When our local businesses, artists and community come together – we know something magical is created, and that’s what this festival is all about,” she said.
Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh commended Mr Bloem and the festival’s team for developing the event.
“The community and visitors both love being a part of (the festival), and which also supports businesses and local jobs,” he said.
