Woodend Winter Arts Festival kicks off this weekend

Anne Harvey-Nagl (violin), exclusive to WWAF from Vienna, will perform with John O’Donnell (piano) in 'Brahms, Sonatas for Piano and Violin'. Photo: Nancy Horowitz

The stage is set as Woodend prepares to come alive with music, conversation and more as the Woodend Winter Arts Festival returns this coming weekend (June 6–9).

Tickets are selling fast and at pre-pandemic levels. Celebrating its 20th festival in 2025, the event promises a rich and diverse program that caters to all tastes—from a late-night jazz session to classical music recitals and family-friendly Cinderella, theatre, thought-provoking talks and insightful literary discussions.

Hear exclusive performances by international artists, including Moroccan vocalist Lamiae Naki and her ensemble Seffarine (selling fast), Italian baroque violinist Davide Monti, and Austrian violinist Anne Harvey-Nagl (selling fast).

Literature lovers will be treated to a special appearance by The Age Book of the Year winner Rodney Hall, who will discuss his celebrated novel Vortex. Other highlights include a captivating lecture on William Morris (selling fast), a lively conversation with renowned gardening expert and local identity Michael McCoy, and a rare insight into the life of Jane Austen’s family, shared by her great-niece Caroline Jane Knight (also selling fast) and local legend Michael Dillon’s film, which is about to sell out, plus much more.

Festival favourites are also back, including book signings and author meet-and-greets at the Woodend Community Centre. The ever-popular Scouts Log Cabin Café will be serving hearty soups, toasties, and homemade cakes, while The Gallery Mt Macedon will host a free exhibition and creative workshops at the Woodend Neighbourhood House.

With its unique blend of culture, conversation and country charm, the Woodend Winter Arts Festival is set to be a heartwarming highlight of the Macedon Ranges winter calendar.

Don’t miss out. Tickets are available now at woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Trio Anima Mundi — Kenji Fujimura (piano), Rochelle Ughetti (violin) and Noella Yan (cello) — will perform Trio Phantasies. Photo: Gregory Lorenzutti