Forget the idea that Port Fairy is a purely summery destination. The small town on the Princes Highway may be best known for its beach — but thanks to their annual winter festivities there's still plenty to do when it gets chilly. From art exhibitions and photography contests to markets and toy-making workshops — plus the feverishly anticipated Dachshund Dash that last year attracted more than 2000 spectators — Port Fairy Winter Weekends are well worth the drive down the coast.
Taking place every second weekend throughout June and July, Winter Weekends will showcase a mix of food, wine, art, culture…and sausage dogs. Did we mention the sausage dogs? They'll be pumping their tiny, adorable legs on Sunday, June 11 — although not before a dog's breakfast and the grand doggo parade.
Other standout events include a tasting session at Port Fairy's newest wine and tapas bar, a native food workshop at Tower Hill, 'hot pizza and cold jazz' at the Wishart Gallery, and ghost tours on Saturday nights. Anyone willing to brave the early morning cold can also take part in the Winter Solstice Dawn Swim first thing on Saturday, June 24.
Port Fairy Winter Weekends will run on June 9–11, June 23–25, July 7–9 and July 21–23.
Image: Loren Tuck.