The beginning of 2026 was not a ‘happy new year’ for much of our region. Blistering heat and little rain was followed by fires that swept across the northern edge of the Shire. Because of this several of our gardeners, who were getting ready to open, were forced to pull out, unsure whether they would recover enough to put on a good show during the Festival Week.
We can only hope that with a good season or two they will be back on board in 2028.
We are, however, delighted to announce the gardens that will be opening in 2026 – showcasing six new gardens and thirteen old friends – a total of nineteen gardens.
You can click through from the gallery below to view more details about each garden. Our print program, with comprehensive details, is available for purchase at the Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre and selected stockists in the shire, as well as from the garden gates during the festival.
Gardens marked (DF) welcome dogs on leads.
This festival there is also a unique opportunity to visit the studios and galleries that this region is famous for as more than 30 artists will open their doors and welcome visitors.
