The village of Millthorpe is gearing up for the annual Fire Fair this Friday evening, kicking off the 2024 Fire Festival around the Orange region.

Held under the glow of festoon lights and the stars, Millthorpe's main street will be transformed into a hub of excitement for all ages. Sample delicious offerings from local food producers, wineries, and brewers, all while enjoying the charming atmosphere of the historic Millthorpe village.

The annual Fire Fair is an event for all the family, with live music, marshmallow roasting, kids' activities, and late-night boutique shopping. 

The street will be lined with fire pits to ward off the winter cold and fireworks will complete a magical night.

“There’s a lot of excitement around!” said Millthorpe Business Committee Chairman, Adam Ashcroft, owner of the village store Ashcroft’s on Pym.

“There’s all different events — live music, There's a couple of different live venues and a full stage.Heaps the stuff for kids and it’s good value. Kids get in with a gold coin donation and that unlocks all the toys, all the attractions and things there for them. It'll be a fun, family event.” 

About 30 stallholders will be set up along the main street and most of the local businesses will be extending their opening hours so there will also be plenty of opportunity to explore Milthorpe’s boutique shopping.

“I have requested that the shops stay open a little bit later than normal. It's a good opportunity for them, but also good for the village,” Adam said.

“I think it was quarter past 11 last year before I closed the doors as there were plenty of people floating about. It's definitely worth coming out for a look this Friday night!”

Or any weekend, Adam added. Millthorpe itself is a big drawcard for visitors and well worth taking the time to explore. Steeped in history, the heritage-protected village is renowned for its grand public and commercial buildings and streetscapes that have remained mostly unchanged since the early 1900s.

Visitors can discover hidden gems in the eclectic mix of boutique, art and antiques shops offering artisan jewellery, and handmade crafts.

The village also boasts top cafes, and a providore with an array of delicious condiments, jams, relishes, olives, oils, cured meats, cheeses, chocolates and much much more. And for the wine enthusiasts, Millthorpe had three cellar doors within a short stroll of each other.

There are great licenced venues and an impressive array of B&B accommodation, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

“There’s plenty of stuff out here for a little village!” Adam said. “There’s all the history, the cobblestone streets, the old buildings, old houses.

“Little quaint shops selling jewellery and handmade items, handcrafted cards, and a few antique places. There’s plenty of accommodation and we have three cellar doors — Angullong, Slow Wine Co. and Tamberlaine —  all within 50 stumbling metres of each!”

But more than all that is the friendly, welcoming community you’ll find in Millthorpe, he said.

“I think it's just all the people that make it. In most local businesses you get to meet the owners and they’re generally all locals and all pretty genuine people. It's a nice vibe out here.”

The Millthorpe Fire Fari gets underway at 5pm on Friday, August 2, with fireworks scheduled at about 9pm. Tickets are just $10 per person. Kids entry by gold coin on the day.

To purchase ticket, visit: millthorpevillage.com.au/events