8 Festivals to Enjoy this October in the Shoalhaven

With spring in the air – the first without restrictions in many years – there has been a return to on-location celebrations throughout the Shoalhaven region. And it’s little wonder, with this being the perfect time to explore pristine open spaces without the huge crowds associated with high summer. Here’s just a small selection of what’s on offer in October:
 

Nowra Beers, Bubbles, Burgers & More
Sunday 2 October 

Taking place at Shoalhaven Archers, NBBB&M invites you to a festival of flavours to savour – with a delectable range of international cuisine, BBQ and smoked meats, burgers, desserts, gourmet condiments and more. Exhibitions on the day include tastings, demonstrations, market stalls, live music and kids entertainment. Bring your appetite!
 

Berry Gardens Festival
Thursday 13 – Sunday 16 October 

After three years of drought, fire, floods and a pandemic, the Berry Gardens Festival is back. Whether your fingers are green or new to gardening, there will be plenty to delight, including native habitats, cottage gardens and home grown gardens. Entry is $20 for all six showcased gardens or $7 each, with refreshments available at each end. An amazing growth opportunity!
 

South Coast Food & Wine Festival
Friday 14 & Saturday 15 October 

The jewel in the South Coast food calendar, this popular event takes places on the stunning White Sands beaches at Huskisson in Jervis Bay. Indulge in the laid-back beach life with great food from award winning chefs and great quality beverages. Ahhhh, this is the life!
 

Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival
Friday 14 – Sunday 16 October

Kangaroo Valley welcomes you to the 15th annual Folk Festival, a three day celebration of music, dance and poetry in Australia’s most beautiful hidden valley. This family friendly weekend combines the arts with local food, wine and crafts for a regional celebration sure to enter ‘folklore’!

Berry Writers Festival
Friday 21 – Sunday 23 October

This inaugural event invites you to the ‘town of trees’ to share three days of ideas and inspiration in the beautiful historic village of Berry. The Festival will feature emerging and distinguished authors from many writing genres as well as thinkers and creatives who will share their insights and experience, with more than 30 sessions and workshops to enjoy.

The South Coast Craft Beer Festival
Saturday 22 October

Now in its fourth year celebrating local beer, food and music, this Milton-based festival will celebrate good times, great food and great beer. You can chat to local South Coast brewers, enjoy tasty comfort food from local providers, chill out to some local performers and of course enjoy locally produced beer!
 

Shoalhaven River Festival
Saturday 29 October

This one day community event celebrates life in the beautiful Shoalhaven – a free event that unites locals and visitors for an action-packed day of family friendly festivities. Relax beneath the flowering jacarandas on the southern banks of the Shoalhaven River, enjoying live entertainment, market stalls, water fun, kids rides, marina expo and arts precinct. The day ends with a showcase firework display at night – a sparkling end to a great day!
 

South Coast Sand & Sea Festival
Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 October

For two days in late October, Huskisson will play host to Australia’s largest multi-sport Sand and Sea Festival. Included across the two days will be competition, recreation, clinics and exhibitors showcasing some of Australia’s most iconic sea sports including Stand Up Paddle, Ocean Paddling, Ocean Swimming, Beach Netball, SpikeBall, a Sand Castle competition and plenty more. The ultimate beachside celebration!