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.

Here's what can you expect...

Fire & Fireworks

Around 75 tonnes of wood and one or two sacrificial wine barrels (empty of course) are ignited, lighting up the night and heating up the Hunter Valley to celebrate the end of the harvest.

The always-impressive fireworks display will return in 2023, engulfing the sky in an array of colours and delighting spectators.

Food, wine & music

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 ticket, you'll get to sip on award-winning Glandore Estate wines, savour food created by local chefs and enjoy tunes from local musicians.

Included in your ticket price is 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 of the Hunter Valley's food offering. There will be gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available, however not all dietary requirements can be catered for.

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.

Arriving by car? There's plenty of free onsite parking at Glandore. If you'd prefer not to drive, Glandore are offering a range of return bus transfers to help your night run smoothly.

There'll be buses running around the vineyards, the greater Hunter area and Newcastle. Just grab your bus ticket when you purchase your Burning of the Barrel ticket on the website.

If you're from out of town and want to stay locally on the night, book directly on Weekenda.com.au and get 15-20% off accommodation, compared with the same listing on Airbnb or Stayz. You can even use the promo code BURNING23 when booking your stay to receive an additional 5% off!

Firestarter Lunch

Glandore Estate are offering an exclusive lunch prior to Burning of the Barrel for Glandore Cellarhand Members. 

Join Chief Winemaker Duane Roy and Chef Harry Callinan for a flame-cooked pre-ignition dining experience on the deck of the cellar door overlooking the Hunter Valley.

You'll also get reserved seating for Burning of the Barrel, happening after the Firestarter Lunch.

Slow Burn Sunday

Enjoy free bacon and egg rolls, coffee and live music the morning after Burning of the Barrel to keep the excitement going.

With only 100 free tickets available, don’t miss your chance to spend a relaxing Sunday at Glandore Estate.

And if you’re looking to take some of the experience home with you, be sure to take advantage of Glandore's special Slow Burn wine offers. 

You can add your Slow Burn tickets when you purchase your Burning of the Barrel tickets.

Burning of the Barrel

Date: Saturday 24th June, 2023
Included: An epic bonfire, fireworks extravaganza, fireside all night grazing menu, cheese board for two, glass of wine on arrival, souvenir Glandore wine glass, live music
Where: Glandore Estate, 1595 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
Cost: Adults: $195 | Teenager: $95 | Child $60 | Free for 0-4 year old children
To Book: visit the Glandore Estate website

Image Credit: Chris Elfes