Abbotsford Convent transforms into tea lover’s paradise for inaugural Melbourne event
Subscribe
X

Get the latest from Beat

"*" indicates required fields

21.01.2026

Abbotsford Convent transforms into tea lover’s paradise for inaugural Melbourne event

Abbotsford Convent oz tea fest
words by staff writer

Oz Tea Fest brings tea traditions and modern innovation to Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne.

Oz Tea Fest makes its Melbourne debut on 28 March at Abbotsford Convent, kicking off a new series of tea festivals across Australia.

Running from 9am to 4pm in the historic Magdalen Laundry, Oz Tea Fest blends timeless tea traditions with modern innovation through a day of tastings, workshops and educational talks. More than 30 established and emerging tea brands will showcase everything from traditional brewing methods to new flavours and experiences that push the boundaries of what tea can be.

Oz Tea Fest is designed for everyone from casual sippers to serious connoisseurs, offering hands-on workshops and immersive experiences that explore tea’s evolving landscape. Following the Melbourne event, Oz Tea Fest will expand to Sydney and Brisbane later in 2026.

Oz Tea Fest – Abbotsford Convent

  • Where: Magdalen Laundry, Abbotsford Convent, Melbourne
  • When: Saturday, 28 March, 9am to 4pm
  • Tickets: here

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Oz Tea Fest (@ozteafest)

Led by a collective of women who are industry leaders, event producers and passionate tea advocates, Oz Tea Fest Melbourne brings together decades of experience in beverage production and event delivery. Founders Kym and Tania from East Forged are joined by event advisors Erin from Matcha Yu Tea and Chloe from Chai Addict, all of whom have worked on events including BrewIN Melbourne and Brisbane, Brisbane Tea Festival, and the original Sydney and Melbourne Tea Festivals.

Tea has travelled continents and cultures over thousands of years, shaping daily rituals around the world. Every cup connects generations, moments and traditions, but tea culture is no longer confined to tradition alone. Growers, makers and brands are experimenting with new methods, flavours and ways of serving tea, reimagining what the ancient beverage can become in contemporary contexts.

Oz Tea Fest aims to showcase the past, present and future of tea, honouring rich heritage and ancient practices while championing the creativity and innovation shaping its next chapter. From traditional tea ceremonies to experimental brewing techniques, the festival creates space for both preservation and progression.

Abbotsford Convent’s historic Magdalen Laundry provides an atmospheric setting for the day-long event, with its industrial-meets-heritage architecture offering a fitting backdrop for a festival that bridges old and new. With more than 30 brands on site, attendees can taste their way through diverse tea styles, learn about sourcing and production, and discover emerging Australian tea makers alongside established international names.

Workshops and talks throughout the day will cover topics ranging from traditional brewing methods to the science behind flavour profiles, giving festival-goers opportunities to deepen their knowledge while sampling teas they might not encounter elsewhere. Whether you’re there for matcha, chai, traditional loose leaf or experimental blends, Oz Tea Fest creates a space to explore tea culture in all its forms.

For more information, head here.