The beloved regional literary festival Words in Winter is returning to Djaara Country across Daylesford and Hepburn from 26–30 August 2026 – and organisers are calling on local writers, artists and event-makers to help shape the program.
Under the theme CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER, the volunteer-led festival is now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from:
Local and debut authors – published writers who are Hepburn Shire residents, or writers who have recently published their first work (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, journalism and self-published works all welcome).
Event and workshop proposals – from creative writing workshops and spoken word performances to walking tours, panels or interactive community events. Hepburn Shire residents are particularly encouraged to apply.
“Curiosity is what brings people together around stories,” Festival Producer Devon Taylor said. “It invites us to listen more deeply, imagine differently and explore the world through other perspectives.”
A large portion of the final program comes directly from this open call, ensuring the festival reflects the region’s creative community.
EOIs close midday Friday 1 May 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by 18 May, with the full program announced in July.
For more information or to submit an EOI, visit wordsinwinter.com/expressions-of-interest-2026.
Words in Winter runs 26–30 August 2026 in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
