Words in Winter – Across Two Weekends in August – Words will be whispered, dark thoughts will fester, and light revelations will prevail if you desire. Immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Words in Winter amongst the Central Victorian landscape of Daylesford & Hepburn Springs.
Locations: Hotel Bellinzona, Daylesford Hotel, Radius Art, Paradise Bookshop, Daylesford Library,
Stony Creek Gallery, Spade to Blade & Yandoit Cultural Centre
Now in its 24th year, the beloved Words in Winter Festival joyfully returns to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs in 2025. This year, we’re illuminating the theme Light in the Dark – a thoughtful reflection of the festival’s deep commitment to creativity, hope, and the transformative power of storytelling.
As fireplaces crackle to life and the crisp winter air embraces the region, our festival invites you to find warmth and connection in stories, art, and community. Guests can even enjoy Hotel Bellinzona’s specially crafted literary cocktails from the Bellinzona bar between sessions, at the festival hub in the heart of Hepburn Springs, adding a touch of spirited creativity to the experience! For out-of-towners seeking to truly immerse themselves, Hotel Bellinzona also offers accommodation for the weekend.
Across two vibrant weekends, the festival presents a rich programme boasting 45 events and over 80 artists involved, with an even split of local talent and visiting artists, emerging and established – offering literary events, performances, conversations, art installations and free events, storytelling, workshops and children’s programs that invite audiences to immerse themselves in the power of words.
Words in Winter offers a diverse and accessible literary experience, with half the program free or by donation and the entire Conversation Hub series only $10/$15 a session. Affordable ticket options and free sessions make it easy to engage with storytelling in all its forms for locals and visitors alike.
No matter your background or budget, Words in Winter invites you to celebrate the power of language and creativity as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
