Tasmanian Autumn Festival about to kick off

By Adam Rice
Derwent Valley Gazette
29 Mar 2026
Robbie Gilligan (Derwent Distillery), Alex Heroys (Destination Southern Tasmania CEO Central Highlands Mayor Lou Triffitt and Cally Lyons from Rathmore

The 2026 Tasmanian Autumn Festival looks set to be bigger and better than ever.

In its third year, running from April 1 to April 29, the Autumn Festival hosts approximately 50 events, with multiple local businesses coming together for the cause.
The Tasmanian Autumn festival attracts people from far and wide to experience the best of everything that the Derwent Valley & Central Highlands has to offer.

Unique events are held each day of the month, and sometimes multiple events each day, with Foodie and Tipple Trails also offering your own tailored experience.
Destination Southern Tasmania's CEO Alex Heroy said the event provides a boost to the state's tourism sector.

"The Autumn festival is a way for us to stimulate economic activity and drive people into the region to celebrate the best that the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands have to offer,” Mr Heroy said.

“New Norfolk alone has some of their highest trading periods of the year during this Festival period.
"The Festival brings together the rich history, culture and the natural wonders of the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands.

“The Tasmanian Autumn Festival is a month-long celebration that throws a spotlight on the beauty and bounty of the season.”
“The Derwent Valley and Central Highlands are home to Tasmania’s oldest trees and some of the world’s purest water.
“The region is as rich in stories as it is in natural wonder. In Autumn, vibrant foliage, unique fungi and lush landscapes create the ideal backdrop for wandering extraordinary landscapes, indulging in seasonal produce and wine, and discovering the creations of the region’s artisan community.”
The Tasmanian Autumn Festival will feature many businesses, attractions and community groups, with lineups and dates for each event on the Autumn Festival's website.

The Derwent Valley Autumn Festival will also be held on Sunday, April 12, at the Esplanade in New Norfolk.
Some other events held across April include:

Southern Tasmanian Autumn Photography Competition
Foodie & Tipple Trail
Exhibition-Andy Hoggins-Feathers & Fins.
The Agrarian Experience & Agrarian Kitchen Garden Tour & Cook with Rosheen Kaul
The Drill Hall Emporium Brocante
Willow Court Historical /Twilight Tour & Ghost Walk
OPEN THE DOOR Exhibition
Spirit of the Valley-A founders tour & tasting
New Norfolk Rowing Club-Masters Rowing Regatta

Blacksmithing Workshop
Waddamana Family Fun Day
Centenary Celebrations at Hamlet Downs
Derwent Valley Honeybee Festival
Autumn Lunch at Rathmore
Painting Workshop with Emma Lee-Bradbury-The Studio

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