September 29th, 2025Celebration of heritage, food and music
The Swiss Italian Festa returns this October, filling Hepburn and Daylesford with colour, flavour and community spirit.
Running from October 23 to 26, the Festa is a celebration of heritage, food, music and local creativity – and this year’s program is bigger than ever.
Flavours & Local Makers
Foodies will be spoilt for choice with a delicious line-up of stalls, from Cooked, Dolci Momenti Sicily and Hepburn Pizza, to Hepburn Distillery, Hepburn Brewing Co., and the ever-popular Gelato Cart. For something special, don’t miss the Makers & Creators Market, showcasing the talent of local artisans and crafters.
Family Fun – Kids Zone
The Festa has plenty to keep the little ones busy. The dedicated Kids Zone will feature rides, fairy floss, a petting zoo, arts and crafts, storytelling, and school choirs. Families can also enjoy the street parade, lantern procession, and spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Hepburn skies on Saturday night.
A Touch of Nostalgia – The Waiter’s Race
One of the most talked-about comebacks this year is the Waiter’s Race, a beloved tradition where staff from local cafes, pubs and restaurants dash to the finish line with trays in hand. It’s a chance for businesses to show their flair, speed and balance – and a great crowd favourite. The Festa committee is calling on all local businesses to get involved and revive this spirited event.
Lead-Up Events
• Disco Night – Saturday, October 4 at Stanbridge Hall. A high-energy evening with international DJ Tanzer plus local DJ support, food vans and bar service.
• Hepburn Pizza Night – Thursday, October 16. An intimate, woodfired feast with three courses and plenty of community connection.
Festa Weekend Highlights
• Thursday, October 23 – Heritage Dinner at the Farmers Arms, celebrating local history with a two-course meal and storytelling.
• Friday, October 24 – Daisy Journey Walking Tour, followed by the Opening Gala at the Mineral Springs Hotel.
• Saturday, October 25 – The big day: Street Parade at 12pm, Festa in the Reserve from 1pm to 8pm with choirs, live music, cultural activations and food stalls. Lantern Parade at 7:30pm and Fireworks at 8pm.
• Sunday, Oct 26 – Morning choir at St Peter’s Church, historical film screening, Yandoit Stone House tour, and the Open Garden Soirée at Villa Parma to close the Festa.
With its blend of heritage, food, music, and community fun, the Swiss Italian Festa 2025 is set to be a weekend to remember.
The Local is proud to be media partner with the Festa.
