Celebrate the chilly weather at the Canberra region’s Fireside Festival featuring crackling fires, velvety chocolates and smooth jazz sounds. Kicking off in August, the month long festival features everything from truffles and lavish winter dining experiences to premium wine tastings and horseback trail rides. A romantic winter getaway to Canberra couldn’t be hotter.
This year’s must see events:
Come on baby light my fire
On August 29 Bungendore Wood Works Gallery is hosting a fun-filled evening of gluhwein (mulled wine), fire twirling and a scrumptious three-course meal, all to the sweet sounds of Rachel Thoms and Lachlan Coventry. On the menu is lamb shanks with truffle mash and steamed greens, followed by a dessert of fig and pecan pudding with butterscotch sauce.
Winter trail ride
Enjoy some one-on-one time exploring the stunning surrounds of Murrumbateman with Burnelee Excursions on Horseback. On a tailored ride, you will have the opportunity to muster sheep and cattle or take time out to view Australian wildlife in the surrounding 1,000 acres of bushland. When the two hour ride comes to an end, settle down in front of an open fire for marshmallows and a mug of hot chocolate.
Majura Valley truffle experience
Discover the region’s best local produce with a journey through the Majura Valley, starting at French Black Truffles of Canberra for an exciting truffle hunt led by owner and truffle expert Sherry McArdle-English. Afterwards, enjoy truffle infused brie matched with wines and pop in to Pod Food for a three-course lunch.
Live music in the Barrel Room
Every Sunday this August Lerida Estate will be hosting a program of live Sunday afternoon music at their winery, showcasing some of Canberra’s leading local musicians such as Mike Dooley and Rachel Thorne, performing songs of jazz legends Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald.