CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER

Words in Winter 2026 invites audiences to get CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER

The beloved regional literary festival Words in Winter will return to Djaara Country across Daylesford and Hepburn from 26–30 August 2026, inviting audiences to step into a world of curiosity, creativity and storytelling under the theme CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER.

Now entering its 24th year, the volunteer-led festival continues to 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.

The 2026 theme CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER draws inspiration from the spirit of wonder that lies at the heart of storytelling. This year’s program will invite audiences to follow unexpected paths, explore new ideas and discover voices that challenge, delight and surprise.

Festival organisers say curiosity is central to both reading and community life.

“Curiosity is what brings people together around stories,” Festival Producer Devon Taylor says. “It invites us to listen more deeply, imagine differently and explore the world through other perspectives. CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER celebrates that spirit of discovery.”

Held each August across the twin communities of Daylesford and Hepburn, Words in Winter is known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse program. From intimate writing workshops to lively author conversations and family-friendly events, the festival creates spaces where people can connect through creativity and ideas.

Community connection remains at the heart of the festival. Words in Winter is powered by volunteers and supported by a Festival Producer, with programming shaped by local voices and partnerships across the region.

The festival also continues its commitment to honouring Djaara Country and amplifying diverse perspectives, including First Nations storytelling and voices from across Australia’s literary community.

In 2026 the festival will focus on strengthening its foundations while deepening community engagement, ensuring Words in Winter remains accessible, welcoming and vibrant for audiences of all ages.

The festival is now inviting expressions of interest from writers, event-makers and workshop presenters who want to help shape the 2026 program. EOIs are open from 20 March and close Friday 1 May 2026. Local and debut authors are particularly encouraged to apply. Submit an expression of interest at wordsinwinter.com/expressions-of-interest-2026.

The full program will be announced on 29 June 2026, when tickets go on sale.

For now, audiences are invited to mark their calendars and prepare to get CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER this winter.

Words in Winter 2026 (24th annual festival)
CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER
26–30 August 2026
Daylesford, Victoria, Australia
Djaara Country (Dja Dja Wurrung nation)

ABOUT WORDS IN WINTER

Words in Winter is a community-powered literary festival held annually in Daylesford, Victoria, on Djaara Country. Now in its 24th year, the festival brings together writers, performers, artists and readers across five days of panels, workshops, exhibitions and more—celebrating the power of stories and ideas