The Limestone Coast is about to come alive, with the 34th Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival set to transform the region into a hub of creativity from May 15 to 17.
Taking on the theme Whimsical, this year’s festival promises a colourful, immersive weekend packed with art, performance, workshops and community connection, all centred around its new home at Still Water Studio in Penola.
Across the three days, festival-goers can expect a jam-packed program that blends visual arts, literature, music and hands-on experiences. A major highlight is the Poets of Penola Acquisitive Art Prize, where artists bring to life the works of literary greats Adam Lindsay Gordon, William Henry Ogilvie and John Shaw Neilson. Backed by the Mary Skene Kidman Fund, the prize pool totals $12,000, alongside additional awards including the Limestone Coast Local Prize and the 2027 Festival Logo Design Prize, which will be revealed on opening night.
Emerging voices will also be in the spotlight through the DISCOVER Youth Literary Award, inviting students to create Australian-themed writing, while new event RESEALED will challenge creatives to craft artworks using seals or closures. For something a little more playful, the $50 for 50 Words Festival Feedback competition encourages visitors to capture their festival experience in just a few words.
Hands-on experiences are a major drawcard this year, with a range of workshops designed to get visitors creating. From the “Whimsical Frida” Paint & Sip at Zema Estate to Mandala Mindfulness sessions, wine-inspired design workshops and origami classes, there’s something for every level of creativity. Younger visitors are also well catered for, with kids’ art workshops, bush-themed activities and face painting bringing the festival spirit to life.
Exhibitions will pop up across the region’s wineries and venues, including immersive showcases like The Garden of Whimsy and Wine, Newfields Art Exhibition, Red Gums and Whimsical Wonders by local primary school students. Live entertainment will keep the energy high, with open mic performances, acrobatics from Air Intensity and the lively Coonawarra Vignerons Shenanigans combining music, food and wine.
For those keen to browse and indulge, the Makers Market on Petticoat Lane will offer local crafts and food, while the Charity Art Auction featuring a piece by Dan Tomkins will raise funds for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation.
Blending art, food, wine and community, the Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival continues to be one of the region’s most engaging cultural events. Whether you’re heading down for the day or making a weekend of it, this year’s whimsical celebration is shaping up to be one not to miss.
Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival
Where: Penola and Coonawarra, South Australia
When: 15 – 17 May 2026
For more information, click here.
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