Bowral is arguably at its most inviting in winter, with crackling fireplaces, heritage streets and cosy cafes making it one of the Southern Highlands’ best cold-weather escapes. While many visitors come for the gardens, boutique shopping and nearby wineries, there’s another reason to plan a trip later this month. One of the region’s most anticipated winter events is returning for a single evening, transforming the grounds of Ngununggula into a celebration of art, live music, food and fire. Centred around a spectacular bonfire finale, the annual Midwinter Festival promises an atmospheric night that embraces the magic of the season. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Ngununggula’s annual Midwinter Festival returns this July
Taking inspiration from ancient midwinter traditions and early European expressionist cinema, this year’s festival explores themes of light, renewal and community with a packed evening program. Visitors can browse food and drink stalls, enjoy live performances and take part in hands-on art activities, with entertainment continuing well into the night as the regional art gallery grounds come alive after dark.
Highlights includes live music from Ruby Rodgers, Abby Dobson and Monico, alongside an aerial performance by Empress Stah. There will also be plenty to eat and drink, with everything from paella and dumplings to gourmet burgers, woodfired pizzas and hot churros on offer, complemented by local wines, craft beer and cocktails from Southern Highlands producers.
As the evening draws to a close, visitors can look forward to the festival’s signature event, when a large sculptural installation created by artist Nathan Hawkes is ceremonially set alight. The dramatic bonfire has become the centrepiece of the annual event, marking the culmination of the night’s celebrations and symbolising the transition from the darkest part of winter towards the return of longer days.
Key details
- When: Saturday, 25 July 2026
- Where: Ngununggula regional art gallery, Bowral
- Time: Evening (check the official program for session times)
- Tickets: Entry by ticket; Welcome by Hearth premium experience available as an optional upgrade
- Highlights: Live music, aerial performances, food and drink stalls, children’s art activities and the annual Midwinter bonfire
Find out more and book tickets via the Ngununggula website.
Getting there
Bowral is around a 90-minute drive from Sydney via the Hume Motorway. If you’re travelling by public transport, regular NSW TrainLink services run from Sydney to Bowral Station, with Ngununggula just a short drive from the town centre. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
