ART lovers are expected to flock from far and wide this weekend for the annual Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival.
Held across the region every year, the festival has been known to cater for more than 1500 guests across the four day event.
As one of the region’s biggest tourism events, Penola District Business and Tourism Association president Dru Reschke welcomed the weekend’s celebrations.
“The festival showcases our amazing region and all we have on offer,” he said.
“Wine is only a small part of what we do here in Penola and Coonawarra.
“I believe we have a strong art contingent and have our fair share of the Limestone Coast’s extremely talented artists.
“There is also delicious food, a rich culture and beautiful scenery all at our doorstep.”
With this in mind, Mr Reschke hopes the festival will bring in those who may not normally visit Penola and Coonawarra and encourage them to return at a later date.
“Amazing events like this help us grow our Penola and Coonawarra brand,” he said.
“There is so much to do and see, our hope is people realise they have to come back for another look.
“We also only have so many beds in town, so the festival does great things for tourism in Mount Gambier and Naracoorte as well – it is a whole South East effort.”
Over the four day festival, patrons can expect to enjoy events such as live music, live painting, children’s art and craft, photography exhibitions and more.
Highlights of the weekend include Friday night garage rock night at the Royal Oak featuring three up and coming bands strutting their stuff from 9pm.
Fitness fanatics can take part in the 60-minute Yoga in the Vines held at Katnook Estate first thing Saturday morning followed by a glass of bubbly and brunch.
Saturday night will see the comedy festival held at Wynns Coonawarra from 7pm in addition to the always popular Shenanigans at the Coonawarra Hall.
Then on Sunday there is a host of different children’s activities to take in including kids’ open mic from 1pm at Mary MacKillop Memorial School.
With the weekend jam-packed, Mr Reschke hopes he can get around to all of his favourite events.
“I am really looking forward to seeing the Gavin Wanganeen exhibition as well as Parker’s photography exhibit,” he said.
“Some of my other favourites are always Shenanigans at Coonawarra Hall and the comedy festival.
“I have seen Justin Hamilton perform before and he is an amazing comedian so I look forward to that.
“There is a heap to do so you have to plan ahead to make sure you do not miss anything.
“I encourage everyone to get down and take in everything on offer – it is going to be a good one.”
Visit artsfestival.com.au for full event details.
