When: June & July. The East Gippsland Winter Festival is set to light up the region this winter and we are a proud Festival Supporter!
This month-long celebration of light, music, food, and art brings the villages of East Gippsland to life during the crisp winter nights.
Whether you are looking for luminous art installations, unique dining experiences, or family-friendly workshops, the 2026 program is jam-packed with events for all ages. Head east this winter and discover something truly different.
Festival dates and location:
- When: 19 June - 19 July, 2026.
- Where: Lakes Entrance and all over East Gippsland, Victoria.
- More information: Available on the website egwinterfest.com.au
Lakes Entrance highlights and nearby events
Lakes Entrance serves as a central hub for many of the festival's most anticipated activities. We recommend booking your accommodation early to ensure you are in the heart of the action.
Lakes Lights: Gardens of the Galaxy - Saturday 4 July 2026.
- Step into a magical, intergalactic garden on the Lakes Entrance foreshore with lantern sculptures, projection art, and the famous community lantern parade across the footbridge.
Light Up The Lake - Saturday 4 July 2026.
- Be part of the spectacle on the water! Get creative and light up your kayak or stand-up paddleboard to create a glowing display of colour floating on the lake.
Gippsland Jersey Winter Dip - Saturday 20 June 2026.
- Join the locals at the Slipway for a cold dip in the Gippsland Lakes to beat the winter blues and prove you are tougher than the cold.
Floating Cinema Night at Idle Lake House - Saturday 27 June 2026.
- Watch Point Break on a floating screen under the night sky while staying warm with popcorn and drinks.
School Holiday Lantern Making Workshops - 29 June - 3 July 2026.
- Free daily workshops at the Slipway where children can create their own masterpiece to carry in the Lakes Lights parade.
Metung Winter Festival - Saturday 27 June 2026.
- Just a short drive away, enjoy comfort food, a lantern parade by the lake, and a live wood carving demonstration.
Bruthen Medieval Winter Fire Festival - Saturday 20 June 2026.
- Experience knights in armour, flaming sword fights, and a massive bonfire in the charming town of Bruthen.
Stay with us for the festival
After a night of exploring light installations and bonfire nights, return to the warmth of our cosy and fully self-contained accommodation. BIG4 Whiters offers the perfect base for families and crews looking to explore the best of the Gippsland region during the festival.
Book your Winter Festival accommodation at BIG4 Whiters in Lakes Entrance today!