The Winter solstice on 21 June is the longest night of the year. It’s also a time of reflection and celebration, and Melbourne and regional Victoria will see an array of events marking this enchanting occasion.
From vibrant festivals and bonfires to immersive art installations and star-gazing gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to embrace the magic of the season in the heart of the city or amidst the serene landscapes of regional Victoria, these winter solstice events promise unforgettable experiences that celebrate the beauty and mystery of the winter night.
- The Bayside Youth Services team are throwing a Winter Solstice Party in Highett on 21 June that promises to be an epic celebration featuring UV lighting and a live DJ spinning beats to keep you dancing the night away, as well as free snacks and drinks.
- The annual Carrum Winter Solstice Swim takes place at 5pm on 21 June.
- As the shortest day of the year unfolds on 21 June, embrace the energising chill of an icy morning swim in the bay at the Winter Solstice Ice Swim in Sorrento.
- Party through the longest night of the year and celebrate the winter solstice at Scienceworks After Dark on 21 June with 18+ Planetarium and museum entry, live music and roving artists and performers
- Dive into the winter solstice in Warrnambool on 21 June with an invigorating morning swim in the beautiful ocean waters of Warrnambool.
- Celebrate the winter season at One Night in Neon when Clyde North’s Banjo Park will be transformed into a neon wonderland with sculptures by Melbourne artist, Carla O’Brien on 21 June.
- Experience the enchanting allure of the Winter Solstice Fire Night, a captivating celebration under the glow of the full moon, held as part of the Taste Sorrento Festival on 21 June featuring mesmerising fire twirlers and the spectacular Burning Man Statue, set against a backdrop of beautifully lit trees and the serene shoreline.
- Celebrate the shortest day of the year at the Winter Solstice at Harcourt Valley Vineyards with co-hosts Shedshaker Brewing on 21 June, featuring live music, a warm fire, licensed bar, food trucks and free kids entertainment.
- The Norlane Community Winter Solstice 2024 is a free event sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong featuring fire twirling, stargazing, music, a lantern parade, arts and crafts, games, food and more on 21 June.
- Join in an an unforgettable evening around the mesmerising Winter Solstice Bonfire in Maldon on 21 June. There will also be food trucks and entertainers.
- Winter Solstice at Rio Vista will see Mildura’s Rio Vista Park is lighting up and celebrating the start of winter on 21 June with children’s activities, a free sausage sizzle and food vans. Bring your own chair and enjoy the warm fire at this family-friendly event.
- As the nights lengthen and the cold deepens, gather in the Barn Gallery at Montsalvat in Eltham on 21 June for a special twist on their Friday night Wine Bar this Winter Solstice, with special guest Naught Gin.
- The Euroa Winter Solstice Gathering is back for 2024 at the Euroa Arboretum on 21 June. Make lanterns and release them in the water, enjoy damper and listens to stories by the campfire.
- Witchmount Harvest Restaurant at Witchmount Estate near Bonnie Brook is celebrating the solstice on 21 June with drink specials, live entertainment, winter warmer foods, fire performers and more for families, couples and friends.
- Celebrate the winter solstice at the foot of Mount Buller at the Mansfield Lantern Festival on 22 June.
- Head along to the Tarnagulla Winter Solstice on 22 June and sip, savour, and celebrate the shortest day! Revel under starlit skies with heartwarming bites, spirited toasts from local wineries and breweries, melodious tunes, fireside tales and bewitching witches.
- Get dressed up in your best medieval costume and join in the fun at the Medieval Winter Fire Festival in Bruthen on 22 June.
- Venture into the heart of winter’s darkness at Nightide, Queenscliff’s free solstice celebration on 22 June when the Searoad Ferries terminal transforms into a realm where fire dances with ice and the night air vibrates with the pulse of primal beats.
- The Seaworks Winter Solstice Festival is a free event celebrating the longest night and the shortest day of the year, marking the start of the winter season on 22 June.
- Winter Solstice at CERES Community Environment Park in Brunswick East on 22 June honours the longest night of the year. Come warm your hands by the fire, sip on some mulled wine and feast on locally made, winter-warming food.
- Share in the warmth of local artists, makers, healers and small businesses in a beautiful day of discovering high quality handcrafted goods and holistic connection, right in the heart of Thornbury at the Thornbury Solstice Community Market on 22 June
- The Deans Marsh Community Winter Solstice Celebration on 22 June will be a n evening entertainment, food and drink lights, fire cauldrons, fire twirling and drumming with candles lighting the path towards spring.
- Immerse yourself in live music, art installations and delicious food at the annual Tarnagulla Winter Solstice event on 22 June.
- The Collingwood Children’s Farm’s 21st annual winter solstice bonfire is on 22 June.
- The Cape Clear Winter Solstice Bonfire is on 22 June featuring music, a barbecue and light refreshments.
- On Saturday 22 June, The Belgrave Lantern Festival will fill the streets of Belgrave with entertainment, food, fun and festivity.
