The 20th Woodend Winter Arts Festival kicks off next week!

Don’t Miss the 20th Woodend Winter Arts Festival!

Don’t miss you chance to see international stars Lamiae Naki (Morocco), Davide Monti (Italy) and Anne Harvey-Nagl (Austria) performing exclusively for WWAF. We also have top Australian ensembles including Accademia Arcadia, Ensemble Gombert, Trio Anima Mundi and 8 Cellos, plus more.

Our Words & Ideas program is packed full of insightful and thought-provoking events. Don’t miss The Age Book of the year writer Rodney Hall, Jane Austen’s great-niece, a captivating William Morris lecture, an insightful chat with television host and garden writer Michael McCoy, just to name a few!

It’s culture, conversation, and charm—all happening in Woodend from 6-9 June. We can’t wait to welcome you. Tickets are selling fast, don’t miss out!

Ode on St Cecilia’s Day – two powerful performances

Experience the grandeur of Purcell’s Ode to St Cecilia, a powerful tribute to music itself. Performed by Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia, directed by John O’Donnell. Featuring soloists Elspeth Bawden, Christopher Roache, Christopher Watson & Jeremy Kleeman.

When: Saturday 7 June at 2.30pm & Sunday 8 June at 7.30pm
Where: St Ambrose Church, Woodend

My Great Aunt Jane Austen: Celebrating 250 years
Caroline Knight

Join us in celebrating the incredible life and legacy of Jane Austen with her great niece, Caroline Jane Knight! In honour of Jane's 250th birthday, step into her world through the eyes of her family. Caroline, Jane Austen’s fifth great niece, will share personal memories of growing up at Chawton House, the ancestral estate where Jane lived, wrote, and published her most celebrated novels. As the last of Jane’s nieces to be raised within these historic walls, Caroline offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the place and family that shaped Jane’s literary genius and continues to inspire fans worldwide. 

When: Saturday 7 June at 4pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

8 Cellos: From Bach to Glass

Experience the mesmerising sound of eight cellos in perfect harmony. This concert showcases the versatility of the cello ensemble, presenting music in sextet and octet formations. The program includes a diverse range of composers, from Baroque master J.S. Bach to contemporary minimalist Phillip Glass, as well as romantic works by Tchaikovsky and Dvořák. 

When: Monday 9 June at 11:30am & 1pm
Where: St Ambrose Church, Woodend

A Garden and a Library: what more could you need?
Michael McCoy 

TV host and garden writer Michael McCoy will explore evocative references to gardens in fiction, the literary quality of early garden writing, and his personal journey through the interplay of reading, writing, and gardens. A Woodend local, Michael is a renowned garden designer, writer, broadcaster, and host of ABC TV’s Dream Gardens. His design work has been featured internationally, and he has authored three books on gardens and garden design. 

When: Sunday 8 June at 4:30pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre

Brahms, Sonatas for Piano & Violin

Direct from Vienna, violinist Anne Harvey-Nagl joins pianist John O’Donnell for an unforgettable performance of Brahms’ three sonatas for piano and violin. Experience the emotional depth and brilliance of these mature works, including the lyrical Opus 78 in G major, the enchanting Opus 100 in A major, and the powerful Opus 108 in D minor. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be swept away by Brahms’ greatest creations.

When: Monday 9 June at 2.30pm
Where: St Ambrose Hall, Woodend 

The Healing Power of Music
Robyn Williams and Professor Catherine Crock

Music can do more than move us – it can heal. From reducing stress to improving cognitive function, music offers a natural and powerful path to emotional and physical wellbeing. Join acclaimed science journalist Robyn Williams and renowned physician and Hush Foundation founder Professor Catherine Crock AM as they explore the deep connection between music and healing.

When: Saturday 7 June at 12pm
Where:  Woodend Community Centre

Make a weekend of it in Woodend

Turn your festival visit into a cosy getaway with charming accommodation just steps from the action. Between events, explore boutique shops, unwind in welcoming wine bars, and savour Woodend’s vibrant dining scene—all of which is within easy walking distance from Festival venues. Feeling adventurous? Venture out to discover the natural beauty of Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon—the perfect complement to your cultural escape.

The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is a registered charity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Donate here or visit our website for more information on how to donate.