Image Credit: Maxim Shklyaev

Wagga Wagga’s Festival of W is back from 5 to 20 July 2025, lighting up the city with:

• Immersive light-are installations curated by local, national, and international artists

• A pop-up dining hub showcasing regional food and drink

• The return of the outdoor ice-skating rink, a crowd favourite

• Live music every Saturday evening, adding warmth and rhythm to the winter nights

A highlight of the 2025 festival is a large-scale light and sound experience created in partnership with Mandylights, illuminating the Wollundry Lagoon precinct with a theme of reflection and refraction. This installation is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful, incorporating works by four local Wiradjuri artist and projection artist Alice Peacock in celebration of NAIDOC Week.

The festival footprint is expanding this year, with additional road closures on Morrow Street, Baylist Street, and Burns Way to create a safer and more immersive environment. These activations are proudly supported by the NSW Government’s Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program, aimed at energising local communities through free, recurring street-based events.

Whether you’re a local looking to embrace the winter magic or a visitor seeking a unique seasonal escape, Festival of W 2025 is the place to be. Come for the lights, stay for the music, food, and community spirit that makes this event truly special.