Why Roam Rutherglen should be on your calendar for the King's Birthday long weekend

Roam Rutherglen is back for 2026, and if there’s one thing this King’s Birthday long weekend proves, it’s that Rutherglen knows how to throw a party with personality.

Returning on Saturday June 6 and Sunday June 7, the annual festival blends regional wine discovery with the kind of carefree energy that turns a weekend away into an annual tradition. As the festival organisers say, "it's the ultimate excuse to finally turn that long-overdue group chat reunion into a real weekend away."

The festival has become known for its creative costumes and group dress-ups, but at its heart, Roam is all about exploring Rutherglen your own way. Some visitors spend the weekend sipping museum-release fortifieds and elegant sparkling wines, while others chase live music, wine slushies and dance floors between tastings. The beauty of the festival is that both experiences exist side by side.

Roam Rutherglen has become famous for guests showing up in fun group costumes.

With 17 participating wineries in 2026, the lineup offers a broad overview of what makes Rutherglen such a compelling destination right now. Anderson winery will showcase its handcrafted sparkling wines, while Warrabilla Wines pours the bold, deeply structured reds the region has long been known for.

Elsewhere, Chambers Rosewood leans into warm country hospitality with woodfired pizza and live music, while Lake Moodemere Estate pairs lakeside views with cool-climate wines and winter comfort food. Morris of Rutherglen promises a more energetic stop, complete with lawn games and fabulous cocktails. There’s also a packed schedule of special events, with a range of experiences on offer.

Highlights include:
• Bubbles & Brunch at Cofield Wines – a three-course brunch paired with sparkling on Saturday June 6
• King’s High Tea at De Bortoli Rutherglen Estate – high tea plus wine? Yes please.
• Cornhole Extravaganza on the Morris Lawns – play for fun prizes while enjoying wines and cocktails
• Roam Runway, Fashion in the Vines at Stanton & Killeen – if you have the best outfit, your group can register to win prizes

Importantly, the festival’s hop-on hop-off bus network makes it easy to explore the region safely and seamlessly, encouraging visitors to settle in for the full weekend rather than rush through a single day.

Roam Rutherglen 2026 takes place across Rutherglen, Victoria, on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June 2026 over the King’s Birthday long weekend. Festival passes, VIP tickets and event information are available via Explore Rutherglen’s website.