The Grampians Grape Escape festival is back for its annual celebration of food, wine and music this May.
The renowned Grampians Grape Escape is set to make its triumphant return, promising a captivating blend of gastronomy, viticulture, and music against the picturesque backdrop of the Grampians National Park, also known as Gariwerd.
Scheduled from the 3-5 May, this three-day event marks the culmination of the vintage season, offering a tantalising showcase of the region’s finest offerings, from masterclasses and cooking demonstrations to live performances and family-friendly activities.
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Far beyond a mere indulgence for the senses, the Grampians Grape Escape serves as a rallying point for supporting local enterprises while uncovering the award-winning wines of the Grampians, Pyrenees, and Henty regions. Boasting over 100 exhibitors, including 35 esteemed wineries, food artisans, and craftspeople, the event caters to a diverse array of tastes and interests.
The festivities commence with Feel-Good Friday, spotlighting local musical talent with performances by five homegrown bands, including The Settlement and Orange Whip, fostering a sense of community spirit and setting the stage for the weekend ahead.
Saturday and Sunday herald the full opening of the festival village, treating guests to culinary demonstrations by esteemed chefs such as Karen Martini, Nornie Bero, Tim Bone, and Matthew Evans. Among the highlights is Saturday’s Grampians Winemakers Barrique Auction, showcasing the region’s premier shiraz blends and featuring a special barrique crafted by the renowned Adam Louder, with proceeds directed towards supporting the recovery efforts in fire-affected areas like Pomonal.
Breaking new ground in festival cuisine, Sunday features Daniel and Courtney, known as the TikTok sensation Chefs and Dogs, demonstrating fresh pet food recipes, underscoring their global mission to advocate for healthier pet diets.
Both days will offer a diverse range of complimentary masterclasses, from hiking preparations for the Grampians Peaks Trail to a soil masterclass led by Matthew Evans and viticulturist Damien Sheehan.
Music enthusiasts will be enthralled by the stellar lineup, featuring festival favourites like 19-Twenty and Madhouse alongside newcomers Bones & Jones and Smoke Stack Rhino. Families are invited to partake in free children’s activities, including rock climbing, herb and flower planting, table tennis, and a colossal cubby house building challenge.
Tickets are available for general admission or tasting experiences, with accommodation options listed on the festival website. Prices start at $55 for a Sunday general admission ticket. Grampians Grape Escape unfolds at the Halls Gap Recreation Reserve.
For further information and to book, head here.
