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It's true - no one can throw a winter party quite like Queenstown can. As winter approaches, the vibe here is building as the town gears up for the highlight of its annual calendar and the nation's biggest winter celebration, the Queenstown Winter Festival. Head to our own winter wonderland from 26 June to 5 July and see why around 60,000 people will be doing the same. Don't forget your warm clothes, sense of humour, dancing shoes, and of course, your mardi gras costume!
Ten days of non-stop partying, mountain events and fantastic entertainment
Photo © Destination Queenstown
The iconic Winter Festival is ten days of non-stop partying, mountain events and fantastic entertainment. There's something here for everyone, from loads of mountain action, street parties, fireworks, live concerts and comedy to theatre, family fun, and a great mix of internationally acclaimed performers and home-grown acts. And let's not forget that this region is famous for its exquisite wine and food, which will also be showcased.
There are so many highlights of this incredible festival that it's hard to choose just a few; but here are some of my picks.
Photo © Destination Queenstown
The Opening Party and Fireworks on 26 June is a great way to kick off the festival, with fashion, food, mulled wine and a spectacular fireworks display. New Zealand's most outstanding percussionists 'Strike' will take to the stage here, filling the night air with their high-energy beats and an impressive live stage show.
The following night is the glitzy Masquerade Ball, which is bound to be a glamorous evening, and the Day on the Bay starts at midday on 28 June - this is a fun-filled day complete with crazy competitions including the Drag Race (yes, men dressed as women completing an obstacle course), and the Birdman Competition to see who can fly the farthest in hilarious contraptions over Lake Wakatipu.
Bright and early on 29 June is the Media Suite Bruce Grant Youth Trust Charity Breakfast. With the help of MC Te Radar, you will be entertained, with a fantastic auction thrown in, and breakfasted all in the name of a fantastic cause.
The kids will love the Teddy Bears Picnic on 29 June, a free event with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Get ready for sidesplitting comedy as some of New Zealand's big names take the stage at the Great Comedy Debate, including Rhys Darby, Dai Henwood, Te Radar and MC Jeremy Corbett. As the sun goes down on Tuesday, the Mardi Gras will wind its way through town. Imagine music, lights, amazing costumes and an unmistakable party vibe - go dressed in costume and ready to dance the night away to a distinctly Latin beat, and don't forget your mask.
Cooking enthusiasts will love the live demonstrations by famed chef Al Brown at the Millbrook on 1 July; and if you think your dog has what it takes then enter them into the Speight's Dog Derby or Dog Barking Competition the next day. On 4 July head up Coronet Peak for the surreal experience of night skiing and the Mountain Scene Jazz Night, and finish off the festival with the Finale Fiesta on 5 July.
Make sure you book your accommodation early, as Queenstown is very popular at this time of year. For more information on the festival, click here.
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