If you’ve been longing for a delightful day out surrounded by the beauty of spring blooms, the Leura Gardens Festival is a must-visit event. This charming festival, held annually in the picturesque village of Leura, offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most exquisite private gardens in the region. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the tranquillity of a well-manicured landscape, the Leura Gardens Festival promises a memorable experience.

A Festival with a Rich History

The Leura Gardens Festival has been a beloved tradition in the Blue Mountains for over five decades. Originally started in 1965, the festival was established to showcase the beauty of Leura’s gardens during springtime, when the vibrant colours of azaleas, rhododendrons, dogwoods, and camellias are in full bloom.

Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity, attracting visitors from near and far who come to admire the stunning array of flowers and the creativity of the garden owners.

What to Expect at the Festival

During the festival, a selection of private gardens opens their gates to the public, each offering a unique display of horticultural beauty. The gardens are lovingly maintained by their owners, many of whom have spent years cultivating their landscapes to perfection. From traditional English-style gardens to more contemporary designs, there’s something for every taste.

As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be treated to a riot of colour and fragrance. Towering rhododendrons stand alongside delicate tulips, while manicured lawns lead to serene water features and hidden nooks perfect for quiet contemplation. Each garden has its own personality, reflecting the passion and creativity of its owner.

Highlights of the 2024 Festival

This year’s festival promises to be as enchanting as ever. With over ten gardens to explore, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to gather inspiration for your own garden or simply enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Some highlights to look forward to include:

• Heritage Gardens: Step back in time as you explore gardens that have been lovingly restored to their original glory, complete with traditional plantings and charming architectural features.
• Contemporary Gardens: Discover how modern design elements can be seamlessly integrated into natural landscapes, creating stunning spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
• Expert Talks and Entertainment: Enhance your visit by attending one of the expert talks on gardening, sustainable practices, and the history of the gardens. Take some time to listen to many of the musicians who will be performing in various gardens across the festival.
• Art and Sculpture in the Gardens: Many of the gardens feature artworks and sculptures, adding an extra layer of interest and beauty to the already stunning landscapes. You will also have the opportunity to purchase works from local artists at selected gardens.

Making the Most of Your Visit

To fully immerse yourself in the festival, consider spending a few days in Leura and the surrounding Blue Mountains. The village itself is a delight to explore, with its quaint shops, cafes, and galleries offering plenty to see and do.  Mountain Whispers offers a range of self-contained luxury accommodation across Katoomba and Leura, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are essential, as you’ll be spending much of your time outdoors. And don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture the beauty of the gardens to remember long after the festival is over.

A Celebration of Community and Nature

The Leura Gardens Festival is more than just a celebration of flowers; it’s a testament to the spirit of community and the love of nature that defines the Blue Mountains.

The Leura Gardens Festival is a registered charity dedicated to raising funds for medical equipment and patient care at the Blue Mountains District Anzac Memorial Hospital.

In 1965, the first year of the festival and with four open gardens, $900 was raised. Over its first 21 years, the Leura Gardens Festival raised more than $250,000, which was used to purchase medical equipment and enhance hospital amenities. In the subsequent seven years, between 1986 and 1993, an additional $500,000 was raised. This funding was crucial in equipping and furnishing a high-dependency unit and two palliative care suites.

From 1993 through to 2023, festival goers have assisted in helping the Leura Gardens Festival organisation raise money for much needed equipment and facilities including a new paediatric unit, a state-of-the-art anaesthetic machine complete with monitoring units, telemetric monitoring equipment, thirty electric beds, East Wing refurbishment, cardiac monitors, humidicrib, significant upgrades to the cardiac and respiratory rehabilitation unit,  a 5 room out-patient clinic and a much needed upgrade of the Allied Health Therapy Centre amongst so much more.

In amongst all of this, there have also been donations to Baptist Care Morven Gardens, the Blue Mountains Health Trust and Can Assist Blue Mountains Branch.

Experience the Blue Mountains in Spring

For those who cherish the simple pleasures of life – a walk among the flowers, the scent of fresh blooms, and the joy of discovering hidden garden gems – the Leura Gardens Festival is a truly special event. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the beauty of spring, and connect with the natural world in one of Australia’s most stunning regions.

Looking for a great weekend away? Experience the magic of the Leura Gardens Festival for yourself.  It’s the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring and enjoy the splendour of the Blue Mountains.

Dates: The Leura Gardens Festival will be run from the 4th October – 7th October.

Gardens: This year there are nine gardens in total participating in the event – seven in Leura and two in Wentworth Falls.

More information can be found on the Leura Gardens Festival website. 

Images: Leura Gardens Festival