Three festivals to build a delicious trip to Orange around this autumn and winter
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If you’ve followed us for a few years, you’ll know how much we adore the Central NSW region of Orange and its surrounding villages, located just three hours from Canberra.
We could (and have) wax lyrical about the restaurants, award-winning wineries, cafes, bakeries, boutique accommodation and unique homewares and fashion stores that Orange offers, all within a charming country setting that makes you feel like you’re on the set of Gilmore Girls.
But beyond these permanent delights, this calendar especially comes to life in autumn and winter. Here are three major events you can book for next weekend or next season.
Want to go now? Meet The Canowindra Balloon Challenge
Hot air balloons launching in Canowindra at sunrise for the 2015 International Balloon Challenge. Courtesy of Destination NSW.
Love the Canberra Balloon Spectacular? Couldn’t tear your little ones away from the sight of enormous, colourful shapes rising into the sky or wished you’d taken to the skies yourself? You don’t have to wait until next year.
In fact, all you need to do is head to the gorgeous village of Canowindra (pronounced ken-ow-ndra) from 20-28 April when myriad colourful balloons take to the sky for the Canowindra Balloon Challenge. Located 40 minutes from Orange, Canowindra is a charming little village steeped in history and a must-visit on any trip to Central NSW.
One special event not to miss is the Cabonne Community Glow on Saturday 27 April, where – how cool is this? – the balloons’ burners are synced to music, allowing a synchronised showcase of glowing orbs against the dark. The evening will also boast night markets, live music and entertainment.
Hot air balloons lit up for Balloon Glow during the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge. Courtesy of Destination NSW.
While you’re there…
Stay: Duntryleague Guesthouse – located inside a stunning historical mansion and adjacent to Duntryleague’s championship golf course, this is country living, done right.
Caffeinate: Before you head to Canowindra, swing past Byng Street Local Store in Orange for coffee and their famous breaky roll and pastries.
Shop: Perennialle Plants
Want to lock in a mid-winter treat? Meet the Orange Winter Fire Festival
Orange’s signature mid-winter event, the Orange Winter Fire Festival is your chance to experience country life in all its cosy glory and with a region renowned for its wine…could you think of a better way to spend a weekend in August than with a glass in hand, next to a fire? We cannot.
While the program is yet to be released for 2024, the festival will run during August, with previous Fire Festivals including museum tastings events at wineries, degustation dinners that hero local produce and are designed by award-winning local and celebrity chefs, and long table lunches in picturesque vineyards and orchards.
Keep an eye on the website for the full program or sign up to Orange360’s (Orange’s passionate tourism body) newsletter to stay in the loop and be the first to hear what events are in-store for 2024.
While you’re there…
Stay: Make the most of your Fire Festival by staying in the heart of town. Byng Street Boutique Hotel is luxury in a heritage location for a bougie stay, while the Quest Orange offers spacious serviced apartments with room for the whole gang – and a great central location.
Sip: Make sure to visit as many wineries at possible this trip – might we recommend Swinging Bridge, Macquariedale Organic Wines, Colmar Estate and Heifer Station?
Dine: Don’t miss a decadent dinner at Hey Rosey, where local produce served alongside local wines in one of Orange’s original fine dining joints.
How about a spring getaway? The Orange Wine Festival is for you
By now you already know that Orange’s wine region is simply spectacular so, naturally, The Orange Wine Festival in October is a mecca for vino enthusiasts and foodies alike as Orange’s beloved cool climate wines are shared, celebrated and paired with an array of delicious local and seasonal produce for a celebration of all things grape.
The month-long festival boasts a program full to the brim with more than 50 events and wine experiences that showcase the Orange cool-climate wine region at its best.
Subscribe to Orange360’s newsletter to be in the loop and the first to know when the program drops!
While you’re there…
Stay: Experience the best of spring in the countryside with a stay at The White Place Home on Byng
Shop: Browse stunning homewares, stunning clothing and gorgeous artwork at Tomolly in Carcoar. We dare you to try walking out the door without buying something.
Dine: While you’re there, make sure to stop past Antica Australis, a regional Italian slow-food locanda.
