The Blue Mountains is not only a haven for breathtaking landscapes and serene escapes but also a destination brimming with vibrant festivals that celebrate culture, nature, food, and the arts.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy winter getaway, a springtime adventure, or an indulgent weekend retreat, pairing a luxury stay with one of the region’s top events makes for an unforgettable experience.
Here are some of the must-visit festivals in the Blue Mountains and where to stay to make the most of your trip.
Field to Forest Festival
Held in Oberon, the Field to Forest Festival is a unique celebration of foraging, fresh produce, and regional flavours. Visitors can participate in truffle hunts, wild mushroom foraging, and cooking demonstrations while enjoying the picturesque setting of the Central Tablelands.
The festival also offers wine tastings, farm tours, and gourmet dining experiences that highlight the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a unique adventure, this festival is a treat for the senses. Stay at a high-end country estate or luxury farm stay in Oberon to fully immerse yourself in this gourmet experience.
Held in Oberon, the Field to Forest Festival is a unique celebration of foraging, fresh produce, and regional flavours. Visitors can participate in truffle hunts, wild mushroom foraging, and cooking demonstrations while enjoying the picturesque setting of the Central Tablelands.
When: until 31st March
Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair
Garden enthusiasts will love the Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair, which showcases stunning private gardens, plant stalls, and expert gardening advice. This festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore breathtaking garden landscapes while picking up rare plants and gardening inspiration.
Visitors can enjoy guided garden tours, floral design workshops, and the chance to purchase unique plants direct from local growers. Spend the weekend indulging in nature’s beauty, then retreat to a charming luxury country estate where you can relax in peaceful surroundings.
Garden enthusiasts will love the Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair, which showcases stunning private gardens, plant stalls, and expert gardening advice. This festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore breathtaking garden landscapes while picking up rare plants and gardening inspiration.
When: 8-9 March
Blue Mountains Music Festival
For music lovers, the Blue Mountains Music Festival is a must-visit, featuring an eclectic mix of folk, blues, and roots music from both local and international artists. Set in the picturesque town of Katoomba, this three-day festival offers intimate performances, storytelling through song, and workshops where you can engage with musicians.
Whether you’re sitting under the stars enjoying a soulful performance or dancing along to lively tunes, this festival promises an unforgettable musical experience. After the day’s festivities, retreat to a luxurious mountain home for a relaxing and restorative stay.
For music lovers, the Blue Mountains Music Festival is a must-visit, featuring an eclectic mix of folk, blues, and roots music from both local and international artists.
When: 14-16 March
Yulefest
Experience Christmas in July with Yulefest, where luxury hotels and boutique stays transform into festive retreats with roaring fires, decadent feasts, and carols. This mid-year Christmas celebration is one of the most magical ways to experience winter in the Blue Mountains.
Many venues offer traditional Christmas banquets, mulled wine, and even surprise visits from Santa himself. Yulefest provides an enchanting, nostalgic atmosphere for couples, families, and groups looking to enjoy a cosy winter celebration. Stay in a heritage-listed luxury property where you can sip hot cocoa by the fire and truly embrace the festive spirit.
Experience Christmas in July with Yulefest, where luxury hotels and boutique stays transform into festive retreats with roaring fires, decadent feasts, and carols. This mid-year Christmas celebration is one of the most magical ways to experience winter in the Blue Mountains.
When: June – August
Winter Magic Festival
A celebration of creativity and community, the Winter Magic Festival transforms Katoomba into a wonderland of street performances, art displays, and live music. Held in June, this event is perfect for those who love the magic of winter combined with a vibrant festival atmosphere.
The streets come alive with colourful costumes, market stalls, and a lively parade, making it an ideal event for families, artists, and visitors wanting to experience the unique culture of the Blue Mountains. End your day with a luxurious retreat, unwinding by the fireplace at one of the region’s finest accommodations.
A celebration of creativity and community, the Winter Magic Festival transforms Katoomba into a wonderland of street performances, art displays, and live music. Held in June, this event is perfect for those who love the magic of winter combined with a vibrant festival atmosphere.
When: TBC
Leura Gardens Festival
Spring in the Blue Mountains comes alive with the Leura Gardens Festival, showcasing the region’s most beautiful private gardens in full bloom. Garden lovers can explore floral displays, charming landscapes, and stunning seasonal colours.
Many of the gardens featured in the festival are not open to the public at other times of the year, making this a rare and enchanting experience for visitors. With guided garden tours, plant sales, and expert talks, it’s a must-visit for horticulture enthusiasts. Stay in a luxury retreat nestled amongst the gardens for an immersive floral escape.
Spring in the Blue Mountains comes alive with the Leura Gardens Festival, showcasing the region’s most beautiful private gardens in full bloom. Garden lovers can explore floral displays, charming landscapes, and stunning seasonal colours.
When: 3-6 October
Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival
Book lovers and literary enthusiasts will adore the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival, an event that brings together renowned authors, thought-provoking discussions, and storytelling workshops. The festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with award-winning writers, participate in creative writing sessions, and explore the power of words in an inspiring mountain setting.
Whether you’re an aspiring writer or an avid reader, this festival is sure to spark creativity. Stay at an elegant boutique hotel with cosy reading nooks and scenic surroundings to inspire your inner writer.
Book lovers and literary enthusiasts will adore the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival, an event that brings together renowned authors, thought-provoking discussions, and storytelling workshops.
When: 31 October – 2 November
Luxury Stays at Mountain Whispers, The MW Collection
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and indulgence, Mountain Whispers – The MW Collection offers an exquisite range of luxury properties in the Blue Mountains. Each heritage-listed home is meticulously restored and features opulent interiors, modern conveniences, and personalised service, ensuring a truly memorable stay. Whether you’re attending a lively festival or simply unwinding in the serenity of the mountains, Mountain Whispers provides the perfect retreat with elegant furnishings, open fireplaces, and spa-like bathrooms.
Located in prime positions across Leura and Katoomba, Mountain Whispers properties offer easy access to major festivals while providing a private sanctuary to relax in after a day of adventure. Enjoy gourmet dining experiences, in-house spa treatments, and the charm of a bygone era with every modern luxury at your fingertips. Elevate your Blue Mountains festival experience by staying at Mountain Whispers, where sophistication and comfort blend seamlessly with the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
Plan Your Luxury Festival Escape
No matter the time of year, the Blue Mountains offers a perfect blend of cultural events and indulgent accommodations. Whether you’re drawn to music, gardens, literature, or festive celebrations, there’s a luxury stay to complement your festival experience.
Book early to secure the best retreats and immerse yourself in the charm of the Blue Mountains in style.
