The commencement of the Bathurst Winter Festival is marked by the Opening Night, which features an Opening Ceremony, a lantern parade, low ‘n’ slow cooked meats BBQ deliciousness, food trucks, mulled wines, ciders and craft ales, thrilling entertainment and the Bowman Dental All Schools Stage which returns in 2024, showcasing local talent, bands and musicians from Bathurst’s schools.
Experience some of the region’s best food and drink at Bathurst Winter Festival’s signature Charles Sturt University Brew & Bite event. Across two big days the event features delicious mulled wines, spiced ciders, local gins, and craft ales from some of the region’s best brewers, vignerons, and distillers, and showcases an array of spectacular food. There’s also a silent disco, twilight markets, live entertainment, fire performers, immersive light installations and ice skating on the McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink.
In the Winter Playground you’ll also find a variety of food options across the festival to fuel you for a big day enjoying the giant Ferris wheel, the enchanting two-storey Carousel, exploring the light and art installations and skating on the McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink.
Live & Local
A spectacular line-up of live entertainment from stilt walkers to fire dancers, professional ice skaters to local musicians. Loads of fun await at Opening Night when the Bowman Dental All Schools Stage will take the spotlight, providing a platform for budding performers from schools across Bathurst to showcase their exceptional talents. In addition to these aspiring stars, various dance schools from the area will also dazzle the audience with their captivating performances.
At the Charles Sturt University Brew & Bite weekend the live entertainment line-up is also a festival highlight. And at the Silent Disco, festivalgoers can dance the night away to their favourite tunes as the lights of Bathurst Courthouse illumination splash over them.
On Kids Day get ready for a tonne of fun with children’s performers ready to take the stage, from circus acts to wildlife educators, there’s something for all ages. And on the final day of the festival, the Winter Wind Down is the perfect place to be as the festival ‘winds down’ with live acoustic music, markets and more.
A celebration of local artisans
An array of unique shopping opportunities at the Twilight Markets. Browse through the stalls of local artisans and vendors to find the perfect gift, souvenir or treat. The markets also feature food and drinks and live entertainment. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the festive atmosphere while supporting local businesses.
The markets will feature during the Charles Sturt University Brew & Bite weekend, on Kids Days and at the Winter Wind Down on the final Sunday of the festival.
Winter-themed & affordable family friendly fun
The Bathurst Winter Festival offers a variety of festival fun activities suitable for all ages. Get ready for a great time with your family and friends in the Bathurst’s very own Winter Playground featuring attractions such as a giant Ferris wheel, the enchanting two-storey carousel and other carnival rides, immersive gardens, and a multiplayer giant arcade game cast on the walls of Courthouse Lane. Other festival-themed activities will be held in various venues around the region as detailed on the event program and website. An opportunity to enjoy some winter magic and unforgettable moments during the festival.
Plus, there’s two whole days dedicated to kids! Come along on Kids Days for plenty of fun, performances and so much more! And it’s all for FREE!
Glide through our Winter Wonderland
Experience the Winter Playground at the heart of Bathurst’s CBD, featuring the iconic McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink. This 30m outdoor rink is open day and night, with hourly sessions available from 9am to 9pm (last session starts at 8pm).
The ice rink offers a range of Feature Sessions – Kids Days, Quiet Sessions, Reduced Capacity Sessions and Skate & Date.
On Kids Days, enjoy some of the best kids’ music while skating. For those who would benefit from a more relaxed environment, Quiet Sessions offer a low sensory experience with no music played during these sessions and Reduced Capacity sessions on Accessibility Day allow more room on the rink, including for those in wheelchairs more than welcome. Skate & Date is the perfect romantic date night, with iconic ballads playing in the background.
Light up the night.
Be dazzled by the signature illuminations and light shows that bring to life the heart of Bathurst and watch vibrant colours and lights play across some of Bathurst’s most iconic and historic buildings. Don’t miss out on the stunning light shows and illuminations on heritage and signature buildings.
