The Hawkesbury Showground will once again host Winterfest on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th of July 2024.

There is something for everyone at Winterfest, a unique and intriguing event for young and old alike. While called a Medieval Fair for categorisations sake, it is a far cry from outlining all the activities happening during the two full on days. From warriors on the battlefield to unicorns and mermaids, cooking demonstrations and old school trade displays – anyone who attends will surely be fascinated and entertained by the event.

The first time I attended Winterfest with my family, I had no idea what to expect. I’d packed up the family and told them we were going to a Medieval Fair – the kids only heard the word Fair and therefore had expectations of a side show alley and hot dogs, my husband just made wise cracks about my obsession with TV series Game of Thrones, Vikings and Outlander  was again getting in the way of him mowing the lawn or going to the footy.  (Image Credit  - Destination NSW).

So, several Winterfests now under our belt as a family, here are some our favourite things about the event:

The Birds of Prey Show – Make sure you check the times of the shows and prepare to be marveled at the spectacular birds of prey and learn about the art of falconry. At the Birds of Prey free flight show, you will see the truly amazing talent of the birds and their trainers.

The Costumery- Winterfest hosts an annual Costume and Cosplay competition. Event organisers invite attendees to come in costume or character to enjoy the medieval revelry. There are prizes, so come in your best costume and enjoy the weekend. Even if you aren’t game enough to dress up, you will be delighted by those that do. The mermaids and the unicorns are must sees at the event as well!  (Image - Winterfest website).

The Combat – The Field of Arms is a place for groups from history and fantasy to demonstrate their fighting prowess. They don’t disappoint, from sword and shield clashing free-for-alls, to swashbuckling showdowns the combatant’s battles are confronting at first, but their determination to win is very entertaining. Pick a side and cheer loudly – you’ll have to be loud to be heard over the battle noise! You will see many different fighting styles and weaponry through history and fantasy throughout the weekend.

The Equestrian Arena – We were lucky enough to catch the mounted jousting events, and while we’ve all seen many a joust on the big screen – seeing a real-life mounted joust is just mesmerizing. The skill of wielding a weapon on the back of a moving horse and the discipline and training of the animals themselves had the whole audience on the edge of their seat.

Artisan Alley - See traditional skills and crafts first-hand, artisans at the event include: Leatherworkers, Woodworkers, Blacksmiths, Silversmiths, Illustrators, Weavers, Ceramicists. You’ll appreciate seeing the skills firsthand and you may find something unique to purchase to take home for yourself.

There really is a huge range of things to see and do at Winterfest. Head to the Winterfest 2024 Event Website to find out even more.

Held at the Hawkesbury Showground means plenty of parking or an easy walk from Clarendon station if you are on public transport. Getting to Winterfest.

The event site is flat and accessible for wheelchairs and prams. Dogs are welcomed on leads, however a reminder to fur baby parents that there are other animals at the event and noises such as canon fire to be aware of.  Winterfest FAQ’s.

The event runs from 10am to 5pm both days. You can buy a single day or two day pass, admission is a little cheaper in advance online, but will be available at the gate on the day if not sold out prior. Winterfest ticket information.

If you need any ideas and assistance to plan your visit to Winterfest and to Discover the Hawkesbury including places to stay contact The Hawkesbury Visitor Information Information Centre.

See you at Winterfest 2024!