Orange’s new Winter Fire Festival appears to have struck a chord with punters, with a number of the key festival events selling out well in advance.

Inspired by the Australian cracker night bonfire tradition, the new Winter Fire Festival (3-5 August) is a celebration of winter in the Central West, with bonfire events, char-grilled feasts, star gazing and Sunday lunches in country pubs, cafes and restaurants.

Caddie Marshall, General Manager of Orange 360 said local tourism businesses have embraced the idea of a new winter festival and it appears visitors and locals have too.

The two tickets stargazing events — Fires in the Sky at Dindima and ‘Is there anything out there?’ An astronomical journey at Nashdale Lane Vineyard —  sold out well in advance of the weekend.

The Mulled, Cured and Delicious event at Montoro Wines is also sold out and limited tickets remain for other festival events.

 “Certainly in terms of our industry they've got behind it and, with them selling out, it would appear it has been overwhelmingly supported,” said Ms. Marshall.

Already other tourism operators have been approaching her about taking part in the 2019 Winter Fire Festival, she said.

“It has been overwhelmingly positive,” Ms. Marshall said. “I think the fact that it is an event that is authentic to our region, this is a celebration of who we are and what we do”

The festival fires up on Friday night with the Winter Wonderland at Millthorpe, featuring live music, food and wine market stalls, finishing up with fireworks.

 A bus is available from 5:45pm at the Orange Visitor Information Centre, returning 8:30pm for $20pp return. Tickets and information on other festival events is available at www.orangewinterfirefestival.com.au

It sounds very good but I have to say I personally have little idea of what it’s all about and what is actually happening. Maybe I need to get my head out of the sand.