Renowned Tasmanian chef Analiese Gregory leads Grampians Grape Escape programming

Grampians Grape Escape add a bunch of exciting additions to their program in 2026.

Australia’s beloved Grampians Grape Escape is set to return for its 2026 edition, bringing a vibrant celebration of food, wine, and local culture to the picturesque town of Halls Gap from 1 – 3 May. Against the stunning backdrop of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, this iconic food and wine festival will welcome over 100 exhibitors, showcasing a remarkable array of local and regional winemakers, distillers, brewers, and artisans. As one of Australia’s longest-running food and wine festivals, the event promises a weekend full of exceptional regional produce, world-class wines, and immersive experiences.

Grampians Grape Escape

When: 1 – 3 May 2026

Where: Halls Gap township

Keep up to date with the latest in food and drinks across regional Victoria here.

 

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Leading the culinary program is acclaimed Tasmanian chef Analiese Gregory, renowned for her time at Le Meurice and Quay. Gregory’s elemental, produce-driven style of cooking is perfectly aligned with the natural beauty of the Grampians. She will be joined by an impressive lineup of local chefs, including Tom Ballinger from Coal Catering, known for his fire-based cooking techniques, Dean Sibthorp from Pomonal Estate Cellar Door Restaurant, and Dimboola’s Cat Clarke, all of whom will highlight the best of regional cuisine. The festival’s food offerings will be complemented by the expert involvement of wine critic Shanteh Wale, who will share her extensive knowledge of the region’s wine scene. The 2026 edition will also see the return of two much-anticipated events—the Shiraz Barrique Auction and the lively Grape Stomping Competition—adding to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere.

A new feature for 2026 is The Coal Pit, an immersive outdoor cooking experience where live fire techniques take centre stage. Here, chefs will demonstrate methods such as low-and-slow cooking, ash roasting, and burying, while festivalgoers can enjoy up-close views of the cooking process. This hands-on experience will be accompanied by Masterclasses, including sessions like Coal Mastery with Tom Ballinger, Earth to Plate with Analiese Gregory, and Sip & Savour with Cat Clarke.

The festival kicks off with Feel Good Friday on May 1, featuring an energetic opening night driven by indie, alt-folk, and alternative rock. With accessible tickets from $40 per person, this high-energy night will set the tone for the weekend ahead. Over the next two days, the festival village will come to life with over 100 exhibitors, offering a diverse range of wines from Grampians wine producers such as Best’s Wines, Seppelt Great Western, and Taltarni Vineyards. Festivalgoers can enjoy live performances across multiple genres, from blues and indie to folk and alt-rock, with acts including This Way North, Rhiannon Simpson, and Gusto Gusto. The festival will also feature renowned distillers such as Timboon Distillery, local food producers like Grampians Olive Co and Kerrie’s Kreations, and a variety of other regional specialties. Guests can participate in complimentary Masterclasses, enjoy live demonstrations, and witness the return of the Shiraz Barrique Auction and the highly popular Grape Stomping Competition. For families, there will be a full program of activities, with rock climbing and nature-based workshops for children on Sunday.

Tickets for Grampians Grape Escape 2026 are available now, with early bird pricing available until April 10, 2026. Three-day Festival Passes are limited, and accommodation is already in high demand, so early planning and booking are highly recommended. Grampians Grape Escape 2026 is proudly supported by Visit Victoria, Discover Northern Grampians, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism, and several local event partners, ensuring another unforgettable year of celebration in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions.

For more information about Grampians Grape Escape and to access ticketing head here.