Photography courtesy of Chris Elfes

One of the Hunter Valley’s most spectacular and entertaining nights out, Burning of the Barrel, is returning in June and it’s going to be even bigger (and hotter) than before.

Burning of the Barrel is the bonfire to end all bonfires, and as the name suggests, guests gather round to bear witness to a fiery inferno. Tickets are on sale for this sell-out event, so book now and enjoy a night to celebrate the end of Harvest in the Hunter Valley.

So, what can you expect?

Around 75 tonnes of wood and some sacrificial wine barrels (empty of course) are ignited, lighting up the night and heating up the Hunter Valley. The always-impressive fireworks display will return in 2024, engulfing the sky in an array of colours, and delighting spectators.

Named in the worldwide list of Top 50 Wine Experiences by Gourmet Wine Magazine, this fire-gazing family-friendly event brings together everything we love about the Hunter Valley – quality wine, delicious food, and spectacular views.

As part of your Barrel Burner ticket, enjoy a glass of wine and cheese board for two on arrival, followed by a fireside all-night grazing menu that has some of the best Hunter Valley food on offer. There will even be gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available.

The best part? You can go back for seconds, thirds, and fourths for food up until 9pm!

It’s best to wear your covered-in shoes, and while there are chairs and tables available, the team recommends bringing along a picnic rug to stretch out and get comfy on. Plus, tickets are available with a range of prices for adults, teenagers, children, and even FREE tickets for kids aged 0-4 years.

The evening will see Newcastle funk band, Sneaky Freakers and Sydney outfit Chaperone playing once the bonfire has been lit. 

For those of you who are Glandore Estate Cellarhand Members, you’ll want to check out the exclusive Firestarter’s Lunch kicking off prior to the event.

Join Winemaker Duane Roy for a sumptuous pre-ignition dining extravaganza on the deck of the cellar door overlooking the beautiful Hunter Valley Vineyards.

Enjoy the wine list that is full of rare gems and old faithfuls, scoured from the depths of the cellar and being poured exclusively for the Firestarter’s Lunch. Paired with a flame-cooked, five-course degustation menu – this is the Firestarter you don’t want to miss.

Come the evening of the 29 June, the celebration for Burning of the Barrel doesn’t have to be over. At Slow Burn Sunday, ticket holders can enjoy bacon and egg rolls, coffee, and live music the morning after the event to keep the excitement blazing.

With only 100 Slow Burn Sunday tickets available at $10 per person, don’t miss your chance to enjoy a relaxing Sunday with Glandore Estate wines.

Burning of the Barrel

When: 29 June
Where: Glandore Estate Wines | 1595 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
To purchase tickets: click here