The best time to drop into Orange

The Orange region of New South Wales boasts a busy events calendar and an impressive food and wine culture. 

As autumn kicks into gear, the change of season signals the celebration of all thing's food as the apple and vineyard harvests are underway. 

Orange FOOD Week at the end of the month is one of the busiest and most sought-after times to visit. 

Here's what is coming up this month with the Orange Chamber Music Festival running from March 12-15, a night in Nashville on March 14 and the Orange Running Festival on March 15. 

FOOD Week (now more than a week) will run from March 20-29 with the 10-day celebration marking 35 years with a full program of events celebrating the region’s chefs and producers. 

Think shared dining experiences, markets and immersive foodie events. 

Highlights include the Night Market on March 20 and the Sunday Producers Market & Brunch on March 29. 

See event program

Central West Comedy with Nina Oyama is on March 27, with the Handa Opera at Millthorpe from April 2-5 and Canowindra International Balloon Challenge running from April 11-19. 

Orange blossoms during FOOD Week

 

Gourmets should mark the dates of March 28 to April 6 in their diaries as one of Australia's most popular food and wine festivals returns to Orange in Central Western New South Wales in early 2025. 

The annual Orange FOOD Week is held in and around one of the most gourmet-oriented towns in the country, a region known for its cool-climate wines and local produce. 

The festival will feature close to 100 events, from Forage - a guided culinary adventure through the vineyards - to intimate dinners, hands-on masterclasses, bustling markets, and family-friendly events.

This year's theme is “Elevate Your Plate” and it emphasises the importance of locally sourced produce and sustainable farming. 

“FOOD Week is more than just a food festival; it's a celebration of the land and the people who work it,” says FOOD Week president Charlotte Gundry. 

“Our region's seasonal produce and talented food and wine artisans make Orange the ultimate destination for those who appreciate high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.”

Tickets for FOOD Week 2025 go on sale to the public on Tuesday,  December 17. Patrons are advised to book early, as events have been known to sell out. 

Find out more at www.orangefoodweek.com.au