Have a Blooming good time at Willunga
The Willunga Almond Blossom Festival returns in July, with a fiery line-up of fun, flavour, and entertainment you won’t want to miss!
A budding star in the stunning McLaren Vale, Willunga has a rich history as Australia’s almond capital. Wander through this southern beauty and soak in the picturesque landscape, where almond trees burst to life with a breathtaking display of pink and white blossoms.
This iconic festival, now in its 53rd year, celebrates Willunga’s heritage while strengthening the network of clubs and organisations that make the community-owned Willunga Recreation Park their home.
Be Wowed by Australia’s Hottest Fire Show
This year’s festival is turning up the heat with the addition of Australia’s hottest fire show, “Inferno.” Performers will chase away your winter chills with a dramatic fire-twirling and fire-breathing act. Sally Scantlebury, Festival Manager said “Inferno thrilled the crowds at this year’s Adelaide Fringe Festival in February and are arguably Australia’s hottest fire show. They will bring a theatrical new dimension to our winter festival.”
And there’s more than one way to warm up over the weekend – live bands and local artists, including newcomer Hugo Johnston and Willunga’s favourite country folk band “Dustbowl Chic”, will be pumping out tunes at Willunga’s historic Show Hall.
This year’s festival also welcomes a new program of up-and-coming local talent, curated by year 12 students from Willunga’s Waldorf School.
Put Your Baking Skills to the Test
A highlight of the historic Almond Blossom Festival is the chance to compete in the famous cake competition. Bakers of all ages put their skills to the test to win the title of best Almond Blossom Festival cake. A fierce but friendly event, tensions rise faster than the dough as bakers vie for the top spot. This year, a distinguished panel of three judges will have the honour of tasting the entries. Andrea Ball, the ‘Green Gourmet’ cooking star, Angelle Boucher, Cordon Bleu graduate whose “Neighbours” crumpets are legendary at the Willunga Farmers Market, and Jean Van Driel, who brings the combined wisdom of the English Women’s Institute and her years of experience judging at the Royal Adelaide Show.
Fun For All Ages
A weekend of fun for the whole family, you’ll enjoy soaking up the festival atmosphere with carnival rides, roving circus performers, camel rides and kids’ crafts and games. Explore rows of market stalls overflowing with unique treats and treasures, see classic vintage cars on display, and as Saturday comes to a close, be sure to catch the spectacular fireworks show. You can even test your skills in the almond cracking competition on Sunday. With a delicious array of food and drink vendors, including Argentinian delights from Chimichurri and Fleurieu’s famous “All Fired Up Pizza” your bellies will be kept full and tastebuds satisfied.
Beyond the Blossoms
And why not extend your stay and explore what else this beautiful part of our state has to offer? Surrounding Willunga, the Fleurieu Peninsula is chock full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered – from wineries and delicious eateries to art galleries, gift shops, and breathtaking beaches.
Willunga Almond Blossom Festival
When: Saturday 27, 11am – 9pm
Sunday 28 July, 10am – 4pm
Where: Willunga Recreation Park, 5 Main Rd Willunga
Cost: Family $25 / Single $10 / Student & Concession $5 / Children under 5 free
Tickets are available online or at the gate.
For more information, click here.
