Words in Winter acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung as Traditional Owners of Djandak, where we work, play, and rest. We celebrate Djaara storytellers and culture holders, pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise sovereignty never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

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Curiouser
& Curiouser

Djaara Country, Daylesford and Hepburn

Wednesday 26–Sunday 30 August 2026

“Curiosity is what brings people together around stories. It invites us to listen more deeply, imagine differently and explore the world through other perspectives.”

—Devon Taylor, Festival Producer

Words in Winter is an annual literary festival held each August on Djaara country and across the twin towns of Daylesford and Hepburn. The volunteer-led festival bring together writers, readers and storytellers from across the region and beyond to celebrate words in all their forms – from page to stage. Across five days of conversations, readings, workshops and performances, local creators and visiting artists will share ideas, craft and imagination with audiences of all ages.

Authors and artists supported

Check out the 2026 talent

Total attendees and tickets sold

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Volunteers contributed

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2026 Artists & Authors

Who's coming

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Food journalist, literary agent

Playwright, writer and performer

Researcher, writer, storyteller.

Fiction and memoir author

Writer, director, and creative artist

Sandra Fiona Long

Writer, theatre maker and artist

Theatre maker, writer and performer

Young adult fiction writer, performer

Poet, writer and funeral celebrant

Self publishing collective

Olivia De Lesantis

Sandra Goldbloom Zurbo

Writer, editor and activist.

Farmer, singer, baker and more

Fernanda Dahlstrom

Writer, editor and lawyer

Writer, editor and collage maker

Children's author

Activist, historian

Cultural anthropologist

Arts journalist, critic, editor and poet

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The festival in motion

See what five days of words, ideas and community feels like

News & Media

What's on & what's new

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Words in Winter appoints Aunty Alison McRae as Cultural Advisor

Words in Winter 2026 invites audiences to get CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER

Local artist Eloise Grills creates artwork for 2026 festival

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Join the crew

Words in Winter runs on heart and hard work. Every year, a dedicated crew of volunteers makes the magic happen - from making our digital presence, welcoming audiences to supporting artists backstage. Whether you have a few hours or a whole weekend, there's a role for you.

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Meet our people