Spring into Kangaroo Valley
This spring, Kangaroo Valley transforms into the go-to destination for vibrant festivals, art trails, and serene wellness experiences. With a lineup that captivates and rejuvenate, it’s time to plan your escape to Australia’s most beautiful valley.
Launch the season with three must-see events. The Kangaroo Valley Craft Beer & BBQ Festival, running from September 13th to 15th, is heating things up with its biggest lineup yet. Hosted by The Friendly Inn, a historic country pub, this event features craft beer brews, sizzling BBQ, Pro Wrestling Australia exhibition fights, piglet racing, lawn mower racing, and even medieval combat. It’s guaranteed to be the wildest backyard party you’ve ever been to.
Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Visual Arts in the Valley festival from October 4th to 7th. This unique event turns Kangaroo Valley into a living gallery, with pop-up exhibitions, an art trail, and installations showcasing both local and national talent. The standout event of the festival is the ever-popular Kangaroo Valley Art Prize exhibition, curated by Boe-Lin Bastian, who also curates at Bundanon, the renowned Arthur Boyd art museum in the Shoalhaven. Bundanon’s spring exhibition, WILDER TIMES, sees fourteen of Boyd’s powerful works return for the first time since their creation. Complementing Boyd’s work, there will be over 60 pieces by seminal Australian artists from the same era.
The valley’s festival season peaks with the Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival from October 18th to 20th. This year’s festival promises a vibrant mix of music, dance, and cultural celebrations, featuring an eclectic lineup of artists such as the Spooky Men’s Chorale, the iconic Bushwackers, and Mudjingaal Yangamba, the Aboriginal Women’s Choir. For those seeking a more intimate musical experience, the Goldner String Quartet will perform on September 29th at the Kangaroo Valley Community Hall, presented by Music in the Regions and Arts in the Valley.
October also marks the launch of the inaugural Yila Healing Trail, a 10-day series of mindfulness and nature-focused events across the Shoalhaven. From October 11th to 20th, visitors can immerse themselves in experiences designed to restore balance and connection. The Wildwood Wellbeing Workshops on October 13th invite attendees to enjoy yoga, Japanese tea ceremonies, and edible garden workshops. On October 15th, experience breathtaking views and explore the rich, complex history of the Shoalhaven region at From on High – Shared History, hosted at The Lookout Cambewarra. This event features a dialogue between Drew Longbottom, a respected Dharrawal and Wandra Wandian Knowledge Holder, and Lynne Allen, President of the Shoalhaven Historical Society. On October 17th, Walking Country with Drew, from Gadhungal Marring, offers a profound journey through the valley, guided by local First Nations wisdom. On October 19th, the Valley Outdoors Mindful Canoe Tour takes participants through the serene Shoalhaven Gorge.
Every month, you can connect with local growers and makers at the Kangaroo Valley Farmers Markets, the perfect place to enjoy fresh, local produce, listen to live music, and engage with the community. Regular market stallholder Winderong Farm will also host Pat Collins’ Herbs for Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Workshop, offering a hands-on introduction to creating herbal remedies.
Kangaroo Valley isn’t just a springtime destination; it’s a year-round sanctuary where visitors can rest, restore, and explore. Wander through charming village shops and cafes, stay and play at the Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Resort, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at their new restaurant Osteria La Vallata. With the stunning Morton and Budderoo National Parks surrounding the valley, there’s always a new adventure waiting to be discovered.