The iconic Grampians Grape Escape is back for its annual celebration of food, wine and music taking place in the Grampians National Park, traditionally known as Gariwerd. The three-day festival runs from 3-5 May and is a celebration of the end of vintage, showcasing the best the region has to offer, featuring masterclasses, cooking demonstrations, guest chefs, live music, kids’ activities, and more.
More than just a feast for the senses, Grampians Grape Escape is an opportunity to support local businesses and discover the award-winning wines of the Grampians, Pyrenees, and Henty regions. With over 100 exhibitors, including 35 wineries, food trucks, creators, and local producers, there’s something for everyone.
The festival kicks off with Feel-Good Friday, which will spotlight local music talent featuring five homegrown bands, including The Settlement and Orange Whip, bringing together locals to showcase the region’s musical prowess. The evening promises to blend great music, community camaraderie, and a warm welcome for visitors, setting the tone for the weekend ahead.
On Saturday and Sunday, the full festival village opens and guests can enjoy cooking demonstrations by guest chefs, including Karen Martini, Nornie Bero, Tim Bone, and Matthew Evans.
Saturday’s highlight is the Grampians Winemakers Barrique Auction, where the region’s best shiraz blend is auctioned off in lots. This year’s barrique, meticulously blended by renowned winemaker Adam Louder, is a must-have for all wine collectors. To further support other recovery initiatives by Grampians Grape Escape, auction funds raised this year will help bring tourists back to Pomonal, a township significantly impacted by the recent bushfires.
Kids Dancing at Grampians Grape Escape
Sunday’s highlight, and in a food and wine festival first, is Daniel and Courtney, aka TikTok sensation Chefs and Dogs, will hit the stage demonstrating fresh pet food recipes, continuing their mission to globally promote fresh pet food.
Saturday and Sunday will also feature a range of free masterclasses, from preparing for the Grampians Peaks Trail to a soil masterclass by Matthew Evans and viticulturist Damien Sheehan.
Music lovers will be thrilled by the lineup, which includes festival favourites like 19-Twenty and Madhouse, as well as newcomers Bones & Jones and Smoke Stack Rhino. Families, can enjoy free kids’ activities on Saturday and Sunday, including rock climbing, herb and flower planting, table tennis, and a giant cubby house building challenge.
Tickets are available for general admission or as a tasting ticket, and accommodation options can be found on the festival website. Prices start at $55 for a general admission ticket for Sunday. Grampians Grape Escape takes place at Halls Gap Recreation Reserve.
Grampians Grape Escape, a not-for-profit festival, is supported by the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria and has been bringing people together for over 30 years. Join us for a weekend of wine, food, and music that’s not to be missed.
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