A fresh and flavour-packed new festival is heading to the NSW Southern Highlands, with the debut of Horizontal Festival this October long weekend – reimagining the traditional food and wine experience with a bold new twist.
Supported by Destination NSW, Horizontal Festival will present an immersive food and wine experience paired with curated music, art and culture, presenting a two-day journey of meaningful connections with producers and primary industries from paddock to plate.
The NSW Government is committed to delivering unique major event experiences in our regions to drive visitation across the state. Horizontal Festival will appeal to visiting foodies and culture vultures alike by partnering with NSW artists and designers to create themed areas thoughtfully designed to captivate all the senses.
Attendees will enjoy live performances and curated music, art installations, interactive workshops and demonstrations by sommeliers, chefs, and artisans that will showcase the best of NSW. Horizontal Festival will celebrate the best of NSW, shining a spotlight on the state’s thriving agricultural sector with local produce, hands-on workshops, and inspiring talks from the makers and growers behind it all.
The inaugural Horizontal Festival will take place from 4-5 October 2025 at Centennial Vineyard in Bowral. For more information and to plan your visit, go to www.horizontalfestival.com.au.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “The Minns Labor Government is proud to back major events in our regions that drive visitation, support local jobs, and boost businesses that rely on our growing visitor economy. I’m delighted to see Horizontal Festival join the NSW major events calendar and I look forward to it becoming a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
“NSW is world-renowned for its outstanding food and wine, and agritourism is a rich opportunity for regional growth. Horizontal Festival brings together our incredible producers, musicians, and artists in one of the state’s most stunning locations and will be yet another celebration of everything that makes NSW special.”
Festival Creator and Experience Nature Group Founder Amanda Fry said: “Horizontal Festival is a platform to showcase the extraordinary talent and craftsmanship found right here in the Southern Highlands and across NSW.
"We want every guest to walk away feeling inspired, engaged and part of a vibrant community and planning their next trip to meet the makers in their hometowns.
“We’re thrilled that the NSW Government is investing in a regional event of this scale. Their support is instrumental in helping us shine a spotlight on the beauty and potential of the Southern Highlands as a backdrop to celebrating all the NSW makers, creators and growers can offer.”
