Shedfest, the highly anticipated spring wine festival, is set to return to the Yarra Valley on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th October. This beloved event brings together friends, families, and even your four-legged companions for a weekend of wine tasting, gourmet bites, live music, and beautiful views.
What to Expect at Shedfest 2024
Fourteen boutique wineries, all part of the Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries Association, will open their doors, offering two days filled with unique experiences. Wine lovers can explore a diverse range of wines, including small-batch and minimal-intervention varieties that reflect the Yarra Valley’s essence.
This year, Yileena Park and Helen’s Hill Estate are making their festival debuts, while favourites like Six Acres and Seville Estate return after several years. Each winery will offer something special, whether it’s exclusive tastings or fun activities like lawn games at Sutherland Estate, a free family petting zoo at Tokar Estate, or a classic car display at Steels Gate.
Wineries and Activities
The wineries participating in Shedfest each bring their own unique stories, winemaking techniques, and experiences to the festival. From the Italian-inspired charm of Soumah to the minimal intervention practices at Steels Gate, there’s something for every type of wine lover.
For those keen on food, each winery will offer entrée-sized dishes under $25, catering to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Think Sicilian BBQ at Boat O’Craigo, wood-fired pizzas at Soumah, or even Vietnamese Banh Mi at Yileena Park. Families and kids won’t miss out either, with many wineries offering children’s meals and entertainment options.
Dog-Friendly and Family Fun
Shedfest is a dog-friendly event, with many wineries welcoming pets (on leads, of course). Families can also enjoy the kid-friendly activities, including a free petting zoo at Tokar Estate, and colouring sheets for the little ones at Yileena Park.
Ticket Options
This year, Shedfest offers several ticket tiers, designed to suit any budget:
- Entry Tickets ($35): Includes tastings at participating wineries, valid for both days, plus a complimentary tasting glass to take home.
- Wine & Dine Tickets ($70): Includes tastings, a tasting glass, one glass of wine, and a meal voucher.
- VIP Tickets ($100): Offers everything in the Wine & Dine package, plus a bottle of wine (up to $35 in value).
Children, designated drivers, and non-drinkers enjoy free entry.
Supporting the Local Community
As always, Shedfest has a heart for the community, raising over $100,000 for local groups like the CFA, SES, and Make-A-Wish Australia.
With over 100 wines to taste, delicious food, and plenty of activities, Shedfest 2024 is set to be a springtime highlight for wine lovers and families alike. Visit shedfest.com.au for more details and to grab your tickets before they sell out.
The Specifics:
When: 12th-13th October 2024
Where: Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries
Tickets: Starting from $35
Family & Dog-Friendly: Free entry for kids, designated drivers, and non-drinkers. Many dog-friendly venues.
For more information head to shedfest.com.au.