Hanmer Springs is turning up the winter magic with two weeks of events, lights and alpine fun.
The MainPower Alpine Winter Festival returns to Hanmer Springs from 4–18 July 2026, bringing a packed programme of winter activities to the alpine village.
For 15 days, locals and visitors can make the most of the cold with ice skating, illuminated installations, family activities, markets and plenty of reasons to stay out after dark.
Ice skating in the village
The temporary ice rink is back as one of the festival’s centrepieces.
Sessions run throughout the festival, giving everyone from complete beginners to confident skaters the chance to get onto the ice. Skates and helmets are available as part of the experience, making it an easy activity to add to a winter weekend in Hanmer Springs.
Follow the lights after dark
When evening arrives, parts of the village take on a very different look.
Light installations along Amuri Avenue feature illuminated shapes, animals, arches and other displays, creating an easy evening walk for families and anyone exploring the town after dinner.
Find Frosty
Frosty Quest adds a daily challenge to the festival.
A new clue is released each day, sending participants around the village in search of Frosty’s latest hiding place. It is part treasure hunt, part village exploration and an easy way for families to see more of Hanmer Springs while they are here.
The Alpine Craft Market also returns across the festival period, bringing handmade products and local makers together in the village.
Whether you build an entire winter getaway around the festival or simply add an evening activity to a Hanmer Springs stay, July is a particularly good time to see the village embrace the season.
Bring warm layers, leave space for a thermal-pool soak, and make a weekend of it.