Step Back in Time | Maitland Heritage Fest Returns for 2026
- intouch Magazine
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Maitland Heritage Fest is back, running from 12 to 28 June 2026. A vibrant celebration of Maitland's unique and richly layered history, Maitland Heritage Fest brings together community groups, historians, entertainers, and artisans to create new experiences, foster collaboration, and deepen appreciation for the region's remarkable past.
The festival showcases Maitland's heritage through a diverse range of engaging activities, including historical displays, house tours, guided walks, vintage games, artisan and craft demonstrations, children's activities, live performances, market stalls, and food and entertainment.
The centrepiece of the festival is a free family day on Sunday 14 June, set within the stunning Historic Church Street Precinct and Olive Street School Paddock, encompassing the buildings and grounds of St Mary's Church, Grossmann and Brough Houses, Maitland CWA, and Maitland Public School's Olive Street Paddock.
Visitors can discover the lost trades of stone masonry, woodwork, and leatherwork, as well as weaving and lacework, vintage games, and carriage rides. Historians and authors will be on hand to share their knowledge, and returning favourites include Sanjex's Vintage Games, Geoff Pearce Silhouette Artist, Frank's Puppet Workshop, NSW State Heritage Stoneworks, antique steam machinery, and a working blacksmith. A children's treasure hunt with great prizes is also back by popular demand. New for 2026, vintage farm machinery makes its debut, along with more stalls and entertainment in the school paddock.
Ticketed events include a heritage dinner, guided heritage walks, a Bush Poet's Morning Tea, and a concert. Full details of all ticketed events are available at maitlandheritagefest.com.au. For further information or interview enquiries, contact the festival team at maitlandheritagefestival@gmail.com. Keep an eye on the website for program updates, expected in mid-May.
Maitland Heritage Fest is proudly supported by major sponsors: Maitland City Council, Burton Automotive, The Bloomfield Group, The Mutual Bank, NetworkICT, Easts Bowling Club, Pender Place Shopping Centre, and The Sign Shop.
