Grampians Grape Escape Uncorks a Weekend of Culinary Splendour and Economic Boost

The Grampians Grape Escape was a great success!

Halls Gap was awash with the sights, sounds, and scents of the Grampians this past weekend as the iconic Grampians Grape Escape drew a staggering 7,582 visitors to the region. Over three sun-soaked days, the festival showcased the very best of the area’s food, wine, and artisan craft, reaffirming its status as a must-visit event on Australia’s culinary calendar.

The festival’s impact rippled far beyond the gates. Accommodation bookings surged by 10% year-on-year, while local spending climbed 12%, giving the region’s businesses a palpable weekend lift. What’s more, multi-day ticket sales soared nearly 20%, signalling a growing trend among visitors eager to savour the festival in full and explore Halls Gap’s breathtaking surrounds.

Keep up to date with the latest in food and drinks across regional Victoria here.

 

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A notable shift toward all-inclusive premium packages highlighted a desire for a deeper, immersive experience. From boutique stays to gourmet tastings, attendees embraced everything the region has to offer, leaving Halls Gap and surrounding towns buzzing at near-full capacity throughout the weekend.

Inside the festival grounds, over 100 wineries, artisan producers, and food innovators poured, plated, and showcased their finest creations. From delicate hand-crafted cheeses to richly layered wines, the festival offered a feast for the senses, cementing its role as both a cultural celebration and a key driver of regional tourism.

Festival Director Kate Kirkpatrick reflects, “What a fantastic weekend. Seeing so many people travel to our region and fully embrace the Grampians is incredibly special. The support for our winemakers, producers, and local businesses has been phenomenal—it’s a powerful reminder of the role events like this play in energising regional tourism. We’re already looking forward to 2027.”

Mark your calendars: Grampians Grape Escape has a confirmed return from 30 April – 2 May 2027, with early ticket access opening later this year.

By the numbers, this years Grampians Grape Escape exceeded expectations seeing:

• 7,582 attendees across the weekend
• 10% increase in accommodation bookings
• 12% growth in local spending year-on-year
• Three-day ticket sales up ~20%
• 85% of visitors from outside the Grampians region
• 100+ wineries, producers, and artisan businesses
• Accommodation at or near full capacity

The festival’s success is made possible through the generous support of its 2026 Festival Partners, including Visit Victoria, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism, Northern Grampians Shire, Broadsheet, Merry People, Harmony Agriculture, Gawk, and key local event partners. Their dedication ensures the Grampians continues to shine as a destination for world-class food, wine, and experiences.

It’s a massive win for the wine region and festival!

Find out more information on Grampians Grape Escape here.