Auburn’s much-loved pub marks 175 years with a big birthday weekend
If you’ve driven through the Clare Valley lately, you’ve probably noticed the Rising Sun Hotel Auburn is looking pretty sharp. New owners, fresh renos and a whole lot of love have given the 175-year-old pub a proper glow-up, without losing what makes a country pub great.
Now they’re celebrating their 175 year milestone in the best way possible – with a three-day birthday bash from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 January.
First licensed in 1851, the Rising Sun started life as a stopover with rooms, stables and a garden, and even scored a place in history as the first regional site to receive a telegraph message. The bluestone building followed in 1907 and has been a fixture of Main North Road ever since.
The anniversary weekend includes live music across the Front Bar, Stable Green and Hallway, food by Smokey Uppercuts American BBQ, and a mix of free and ticketed events.
Friday night kicks off with a free Front Bar session, extended locals’ happy hour and DJ Murph from 7.30pm.
Saturday features a full day of live music on the Stable Green from midday, followed by a ticketed Dinner and Show in the Hallway with Peter Head performing tracks from his ‘King of the Cross’ album.
Sunday wraps things up with ‘The Big Dance’ – an afternoon and evening of live music on the Stable Green.
After 175 years, the Rising Sun still knows how to throw a party. Grab your tickets and make a weekend of it.
RISING SUN HOTEL AUBURN 175 YEAR BIRTHDAY BASH
WHEN: Friday 23 to Sunday 25 January, 2026
WHERE: The Rising Sun Hotel – 19 Main North Road, Auburn
TICKETS: Saturday $10
Sunday $20
Two-day pass $25
Dinner and Show $95
Find all the details and tickets here
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