Festivals & seasonal events
Plan your visit around the seasons: autumn music, winter performances, spring gardens and celebrations, and summer discoveries.
Looking for what’s on across the Blue Mountains? Explore concerts, markets, exhibitions and special events throughout the year in the Blue Mountains What’s On calendar.
Festivals take place on particular dates and may change venues, pause or sell out. Check the official event website for the latest program before you plan your visit.
Use Location to choose a town or village; categories describe activities and interests rather than locations.
Distances outside central Blackheath are broad, indicative ranges from Blackheath town centre, not live route calculations. Select “Map & reviews” for directions and an exact route.
Autumn · March – May
Music and inventive festival experiences as the mountain air begins to cool.
Blackheath Chamber Music Festival
Annual chamber music festival · April
An intimate annual autumn festival featuring acclaimed Australian classical musicians and chamber music performances. The next festival is scheduled for 16–18 April 2027; check the official program and tickets before visiting.
Blue Mountains Music Festival
Folk, roots & live music
Approx. 10–15 km from Blackheath town centre
An annual gathering of folk, roots and world music, with concerts and workshops in Katoomba. The next advertised festival is in March 2027; check the official site for the lineup and tickets.
Ironfest
Creative arts, costumes & spectacle
Check route from Blackheath town centre
A distinctive arts and culture festival known for costumes, creative displays and a playful atmosphere. Held at The Foundations in Portland; confirm the next event dates and venue before travelling.
Six Foot Track Marathon
Historic 45 km trail-running race
Starting area approx. 10–15 km from Blackheath town centre
A challenging annual 45 km trail marathon starting near Katoomba. The current race finish may differ from the traditional Jenolan Caves endpoint; check the organiser’s website for event details and access.
Ultra-Trail Australia
Major trail-running event in the Blue Mountains
Approx. 10–15 km from Blackheath town centre
An internationally recognised trail-running event with routes through the Blue Mountains. Check official race dates, spectator information and access restrictions.
Winter · June – August
A lively midwinter reason to visit Katoomba.
Blue Mountains Elvis Festival
Elvis-themed performances & celebrations
Approx. 10–15 km from Blackheath town centre
A celebration of Elvis music and tribute performers in Katoomba. This is a periodic festival; check the official program for the next announced dates.
Yulefest — Christmas in July
Christmas-in-July celebrations across the Blue Mountains
During July, participating hotels and restaurants host festive winter dinners and events. Check each venue’s current program and booking requirements.
Spring · September – November
Gardens in bloom, village celebrations and a Halloween street festival.
Blackheath Rhododendron Festival
Spring festival in Blackheath
A much-loved Blackheath community festival celebrating spring, with a parade and activities around the village. Check the festival program for this year’s dates and details.
Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival
Author talks, literary events and writing workshops
Approx. 10–15 km from Blackheath town centre
A spring literary festival featuring author conversations, panels, readings and workshops across the Blue Mountains. The 2026 festival runs 30 October–1 November; check the organiser’s website for future dates and tickets.
Leura Gardens Festival
Spring gardens open to visitors
Approx. 15–20 km from Blackheath town centre
Visit a collection of beautiful cool-climate private gardens during this spring festival. The 2026 event ran 2–5 October; consult the website for future dates and ticket information.
Lithgow Halloween
Costumes, performances & street celebrations
Approx. 30–40 km from Blackheath town centre
Lithgow’s Halloween celebrations feature costumed crowds, entertainment and a lively Main Street festival. The 2026 Main Street event is scheduled for 31 October; check the full program before visiting.
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Oktoberfest at The Carrington
Annual Bavarian celebration with live music, food and beer
The historic Carrington Hotel hosts an annual Oktoberfest celebration with live bands, German-inspired food, beers and festive entertainment. In 2026 it takes place on Saturday 24 October, 11 am–8 pm, with free entry. Check the official event page for future dates and details.
Summer · December – February
Summer brings outdoor theatre, comedy and handmade markets. Check each organiser for current dates and availability.
BArtS Handmade Christmas Market
Seasonal handmade arts & gifts market · December
Browse original ceramics, prints, paintings and locally made gifts from Blackheath artists. This is a seasonal event; check the organiser for the next confirmed date.
Blue Mountains Comedy Festival
Comedy performances · Summer · various venues
A festival of stand-up, comedy showcases and special performances at venues across the Blue Mountains. Check the organiser’s latest program for dates, locations and tickets.
Leura Shakespeare Festival — Sport for Jove
Outdoor Shakespeare at Everglades · postponed for 2027
Sport for Jove has traditionally staged outdoor Shakespeare in Leura. The National Trust has postponed the 2027 festival and anticipates its return in 2028; check for a confirmed future season before planning a visit.