Explore and discover all the wonders the Winter Festival has to offer these school holidays.
Mayor Robert Taylor said the city centre has been transformed into a winter wonderland and there’s a variety of attractions and activities for the whole family.
“Festival fixtures including the McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink, giant ferris wheel and carousel are back,” he said.
“The program for this year is extensive featuring food and wine stalls, festival nights and plenty of activities for families with children.
“From sundown to 10pm each night the popular illuminations will be displayed on buildings around the CBD”.
Regional tourism expert from the Charles Sturt University School of Business, Dr Clifford Lewis said research has shown that events bring the community together and help instil pride in the town.
“They provide an opportunity for residents to invite others to come visit, and with that be an ambassador for the area. In doing so, it facilitates a sense of place attachment helping to keep residents, while also works to market the town to new potential residents,” he said.
“Events like the Bathurst Winter Festival also help showcase the place. The food and wine stalls in particular, allow local residents and small businesses to put their work on display.”
Highlights
Armada Bathurst Opening Night
Saturday 2 July | 4pm – 9pm
Starting from 4pm, join in the fun with ice skating, carnival rides, roving street performers on stilts and live music to get you dancing in the street. Illuminations will be switched on at 5:45pm.
Tremain’s Mill will be another hot spot for visitors to enjoy light, film, music, art and enjoy a lantern parade.
The FAST CARS Lantern Parade will feature a drum circle, live music, a mini film festival, mulled wine and delicious food. This event features a collaboration between local artist Nicole Welch and, Leanna Carr-Smith Wiradyuri Elder Wirribee, Kate Smith and drummer Rob Shannon, showcasing their works from 5pm.
Food and wine:
Smoking Brothers Catering
The Original Fairy Floss Company
Doppio
Renzaglia Wines
Cosmo Brewing
Charles Sturt University Brew & Bite
Friday 8 July | 4pm – 9pm
Saturday 9 July | 12pm – 9pm
Enjoy food, live entertainment and music and twilight markets, go ice skating or a spin on the show rides, see colourful after-dark illuminations and much more. Mulled wine, spiced cider, local gin and ales are a clear favourite during Brew & Bite. Bring or buy your reusable festival cup and match your drop to your favourite bite to eat.
DIY Film Festival
Festival weekends at Tremain’s Mill
Art in the Park
2-17 July
Explore the artworks of regional artists in Machattie Park, each day of the festival.
Regional artists include:
- Hui Selwood
- Leanne Thompson
- Ludwig Mlcek Mlcek
- Justin Lampe
Machattie Park will also feature some surprises for visitors:
- Festoon lined pathways
- Colourful trees
- Experience the fountain under a canopy of lights
- Wander through the geodome as you enter Machattie Park
- Walk through rainbows and be surprised with hidden gems throughout the park
- And don’t miss the giant flowers in Kings Parade
For more information visit www.bathurstwinterfestival.com.au
