Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival
Trunkey Street & Newbridge Showground
The Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival is an iconic annual event held in the village of Newbridge, NSW. It is hosted by Newbridge Progress Association Inc. since 2014 and has become a highlight of the Blayney Shire events calendar, drawing visitors for across the region and beyond.
The program begins on the Friday evening with a Mediaeval Banquet with live entertainment and a sumptuous 3 course feast.
On the Saturday the village of Newbridge transfroms into a colourful and vibrant venue with street entertainment, a variety of dancing demonstrations and "Have a Go" opportunities for attendees of the event. An extended street market offers a wide range of creative and artisan products. A Medieval themed market area included a viking village is displayed at the Newbridge Showground.
Costumed and cosplay participants are led by the Canobolas Pipe Band in the street parade that travels down the main street of Newbridge. Costume prizes, sponsored by local businesses, are awarded to parade participants and best-dressed stall vendors.
Jousting, Skills at Arms and Viking warrior re-enactment battles are staged at various times throughout the day at the Newbridge Showground. As the sunsets, fire-twirling and drumming takes place in front of the Winter Solstice bonfire. Attendees then witness the lighting of the Wickerman atop of the Winter Solstice bonfire.
