Spudfest 2026 runs 2nd–3rd May with Street Fair and Discovery Day
Trentham will host The Great Trentham Spudfest across two days on 2nd–3rd May 2026, following its Gold recognition in Australia’s Top Tiny Tourism Town Awards. The event marks its 19th year and is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors. It brings together growers, artisans, musicians and food producers to reflect the region’s potato-growing history.
The festival traces its origins to the 1860s, when deep red volcanic soils in the area supported potato cultivation. As a result, the programme continues to centre on local produce and agricultural practices. Organisers have confirmed an expanded line-up for 2026, including new activities and extended precincts.
Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Tony Clark said, “Spudfest is one of our region’s most celebrated events and a proud reflection of our rich agricultural heritage. It shines a spotlight on our local potato industry and brings people together to honour the dedication of our farmers while enjoying a weekend of food, fun and community connection.”
Festival coordinator Brooke Limmer said, “Spudfest is about our growers, our landscape, and the people who call this place home. In 2026, we’re building on everything locals and visitors love about the festival, while introducing some new experiences that invite people to dig a little deeper into the region.”
Saturday 2nd May will centre on a Street Fair across multiple precincts in Trentham. High Street will close to traffic for the day, allowing pedestrian access throughout the town centre. Visitors can access spud-focused food offerings, regional produce, a makers market, and live music. In addition, the Spud Olympics will return, alongside opportunities to purchase freshly harvested potatoes from local growers.
The Trentham Historical Society will operate guided bus tours of heritage-protected Spud Huts. Meanwhile, a larger Kids’ Zone will include free puppet shows and hands-on activities. A new Spud Olympics event format will run alongside an additional live music stage featuring local and emerging performers.
As the programme continues into the evening, Spudfest Up Late will introduce a burlesque ‘carbaret’ performance. At the same time, chef Harry Gibbs will present a four-course tasting menu at Ensemble. The Spudfest Cèilidh will also return for its third year, offering a family-friendly event with Celtic music and dance.
Sunday shifts to regional exploration across multiple hubs
Sunday 3rd May will focus on Discovery Day, with activities extending beyond Trentham into surrounding towns. The schedule includes guided walks, farm gate trails, workshops, open studios and heritage experiences. Therefore, the day is structured to highlight regional diversity and encourage broader exploration.
Trentham Town Square will operate as the Spud Hub, providing access to fresh produce, merchandise, and tour information. Visitors can also take part in scavenger hunts and use the hub as a starting point for activities. Horse and cart rides and live entertainment will run throughout the day.
New regional hubs will be introduced in Newbury, Blackwood, Little Hampton, Lyonville, Daylesford, Spring Hill, Tylden and Woodend. These locations will host a range of activities, including garden tours, artist experiences and workshops. For example, sessions will include tours at Garden of St Erth, artist interactions at The Little Gallery, and horticultural workshops at Fleur de Lyonville and Spring Hill Nursery & Gardens.
Spudfeast will operate alongside Discovery Day, with cafes, restaurants and bakeries serving potato-based dishes across Trentham and the regional hubs. Consequently, food offerings will extend across the wider programme rather than being limited to central locations.
Brooke Limmer said, “Sunday is about discovery and connection. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the weekend, whether that’s meeting a local grower, uncovering local history, or simply enjoying great food in a beautiful setting.”
The festival acknowledges the lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung and Wurundjeri people and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
FESTIVAL PROGRAM
• Street Fair (Saturday 2 May): https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/saturday
• Discovery Day (Sunday 3 May): https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/sunday
For more information visit: https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/
