There’s no such thing as a bad time to visit the Blue Mountains. The region offers year-round charm and adventure, but winter comes with a unique appeal. Think crisp bushwalks, cosy cafes, roaring fireplaces, fog-covered lookouts, and the chance of seeing a dusting of snow have long made it one of the state’s most popular winter escapes. If you needed another reason to visit, one of the region’s best-known annual events is set to return this weekend. Taking over the streets of Katoomba on the winter solstice, the Winter Magic Festival will once again bring thousands of locals and visitors together for a day of markets, live entertainment, community celebrations and colourful street performances. Running for more than three decades, the festival has become a fixture on the Blue Mountains calendar and one of the area’s biggest winter drawcards. Here’s what visitors can expect from this year’s event.
Winter Magic Festival returns to Katoomba
For one day only, Katoomba’s main street will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly festival precinct, with performers, musicians, artists and market traders taking over the town centre from morning until night. More than 100 stalls are expected to line the streets, with everything from handmade crafts and artisan goods to hearty winter comfort food and locally made products on the menu.
One of the festival’s biggest highlights is the Grand Parade, a vibrant procession that winds its way through town, bringing together dancers, musicians, community groups and elaborately costumed participants in a colourful celebration of local creativity. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the event by dressing up themselves, with everything from whimsical costumes to vintage-inspired outfits a common sight throughout the day.
And that’s not all. Beyond the street festivities, a range of live performances, workshops, art installations and community activities will alos take place across Katoomba’s venues. The celebrations continue well into the evening, culminating with a fireworks display above the historic Carrington Hotel.
Key details
- Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Location: Katoomba Street, Katoomba
- Entry: Free
- Festival hours: Events and activities will run throughout the day, with evening celebrations continuing into the night
- Road closures: Sections of Katoomba Street and surrounding roads will be closed to vehicles for the event
Find full event schedules and updates on the Winter Magic Festival website.
Getting there
Katoomba is located in the heart of the Blue Mountains, just a short 1.5 hour drive from Sydney. Regular train services operate along the Blue Mountains Line, with direct connections from Sydney and major stations including Parramatta, Blacktown and Penrith. Visitors planning to drive should allow extra time, as road closures and increased traffic are expected throughout the festival. Plan your trip via Transport for NSW.
