NEERIM ARTSFEST
Neerim Artsfest 2026
Saturday 28 February – Sunday 15 March 2026
A free, community-driven arts festival across the Neerim District
Neerim Artsfest returns in 2026 with two weeks of art, sculpture and community events spread across Neerim South and surrounding towns. From outdoor sculpture trails and murals to indoor exhibitions, live music, artist demonstrations and local events, Artsfest invites visitors to explore creativity across the district.
Artsfest is proudly community-led, free to attend, and designed to be enjoyed at your own pace — whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend away it is the perfect addition to your leisure time.
What’s On at Neerim Artsfest
Outdoor Sculpture & Art Trail
28 February – 15 March
Discover sculptures that have been acquired or are part of the Neerim Bower Acquisition Award 2014 to 2026 including the iconic Neerim Bower itself and murals across the Neerim District, creating an open-air art trail that connects towns and spaces. This year’s theme is “The Spirit Soars” requiring the competitive sculptors to lift our spirits through art that inspires.
Murals and artworks can be found at:
- Over 30 Sculptures of the 2026 award and the past acquisitions throughout the main Street of Neerim South and the wetlands in Neerim South where Tiddalik the Thirsty Frog resides.
- Serigraph Gallery, Neerim South
- Local school, basketball stadium and IGA supermarket wall, Neerim South
- Noojee Hall, Park and Heritage Centre
The trail is free to explore and can be enjoyed over one visit or across multiple days.
Indoor Sculpture Exhibitions – Algie Hall, 213 Main Road Neerim South
Open daily, 10am – 4pm | 28 February – 15 March
- Small Sculpture Exhibition
Featuring works by selected sculpture entrants as part of Artsfest. - Children’s Terracotta Pot Painting Exhibition
A joyful exhibition showcasing creative work by local school students.
IGA The People’s Choice Award
Vote for your favourite sculpture during Artsfest and help decide the IGA People’s Choice Award winner for Outdoor Sculptures and Indoor Sculptures. Voting details will be available at exhibition locations throughout the festival.
Special Events & Experiences
Warragul Municipal Band – Picnic Concert in the Park
Saturday 28 February | 11.30am
Bring a rug, chairs, lunch or nibbles and enjoy a relaxed outdoor concert. After the performance, wander across the road to explore the sculpture exhibitions and continue your Artsfest visit.
Watch artist Makalah Crichton demonstrate drawing in pencil and textas:
- Friday 13 March | 1pm – 3pm
- Saturday 14 March | 10am – 12 noon
Wetlands Walk – Meet Tiddalik the Thirsty Frog
A gentle, family-friendly wetlands walk and story experience, perfect for younger visitors and those wanting to explore the local environment during Artsfest.
Serigraph Gallery
Open weekends during Artsfest, or by appointment.
https://www.serigraphgallery.com
What’s On Around the District During Artsfest
Artsfest also coincides with a wide range of independently run events and creative spaces across the district.
Festival of Small Halls Concert – Rokeby Hall
Saturday 1 March | 7.00 – 9.30pm
https://festivalofsmallhalls.com/rokeby-2026
🎨 Kerrie Warren Open Studio
1 March & 8 March | 2pm – 4pm, 9 March 2-4pm or by appointment
Red Tree Gallery – Laurie Collins (Sculptor), Jindivick
Open daily 10am – 12pm, 1–15 March, or by appointment
📞 03 5628 5224
Bower Bird Arts & Crafts
Open daily during Artsfest.
Gippsland International Film Festival
Saturday 14 March (evening) – Noojee Heritage Centre
Sunday 15 March (matinee) – Rokeby Hall
👉 https://www.gippslandinternationalfilmfestival.com.au
Plan Your Visit
- Dates: 28 February – 15 March 2026
- Location: Neerim District, Victoria
- Cost: Free entry to Artsfest events
- Access: Events and exhibitions are spread across towns — perfect for exploring by car and on foot
Many visitors choose to:
- Visit for a few hours
- Make a day trip and have lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area
- Stay overnight and explore the region over several days.
Welcome to Neerim Artsfest
Neerim Artsfest is proudly run by volunteers and supported by local sponsors, artists and community groups. It celebrates creativity, connection and place — and everyone is welcome.
28 February – 15 March 2026
Free entry | All welcome
