Lost Trades Fair 2027 at Hanging Rock
Step into a world where craftsmanship, creativity and centuries-old skills come alive at the Lost Trades Fair.
Returning to the spectacular Hanging Rock Reserve in the Macedon Ranges on 20–21 March 2027.
Less than an hour from Melbourne, this remarkable event brings together more than 150 of Australia's finest artisans alongside international guest makers, celebrating traditional trades, handmade skills and the enduring value of creating something built to last. Watch blacksmiths shape glowing steel, wheelwrights fit red-hot tyres, weavers work intricate textiles, woodworkers carve by hand, and skilled makers share techniques passed down through generations.
Your ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock, allowing you to combine this globally renowned artisan festival with time exploring one of Victoria's most iconic natural landmarks. Wander between demonstrations, hear the stories behind the crafts, enjoy local food, discover beautiful handmade objects, then take a walk to the summit or relax beneath the towering gum trees with a picnic.
Whether you're passionate about traditional craftsmanship, searching for a unique weekend escape, or simply curious to see extraordinary skills in action, the Lost Trades Fair offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of every age.
Why visit the Lost Trades Fair?
- Watch more than 150 master artisans demonstrating traditional skills throughout the day.
- Meet Australian and international makers and hear the stories behind their craft.
- Experience live demonstrations including blacksmithing, woodturning, leatherwork, weaving, ceramics, stone carving and many more.
- Discover artisan talks and presentations exploring heritage trades, sustainability and craftsmanship.
- Browse beautifully handcrafted pieces made by the people who create them.
- Enjoy local food and regional produce from the Macedon Ranges and surrounding regions.
- Bring a picnic and spend time exploring Hanging Rock Reserve.
- Climb the famous Hanging Rock Summit Walking Trail or enjoy the gentler Base Walk while you're there.
- Free shuttle buses operate between Woodend Railway Station and Hanging Rock for ticket holders.
- Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, making it one of Victoria's best artisan day trips or weekend escapes.
Why Hanging Rock is the perfect setting.
There are few places in Australia where history, landscape and creativity come together as naturally as Hanging Rock. Known for its dramatic volcanic rock formations, Indigenous cultural significance and the enduring mystery of
Picnic at Hanging Rock, the reserve provides a memorable backdrop for the Lost Trades Fair. Between artisan demonstrations, visitors can explore the Discovery Centre, walk beneath towering rock formations, climb to the summit for panoramic views or simply enjoy the peaceful surrounds that have inspired artists, writers and visitors for generations. Your event ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock, making it easy to experience both the fair and one of Victoria's most iconic natural attractions.
Stay longer in the Macedon Ranges.
While some visitors come for the day,
staying overnight lets you experience even more of the Macedon Ranges. Wander Woodend's cafés and galleries, discover cellar doors and cool-climate wines, explore Macedon Regional Park, visit local gardens, browse village boutiques or enjoy a long lunch before heading home. With lots of
accommodation places to stay ranging from cosy cottages and boutique hotels to luxury country retreats, the Lost Trades Fair is the perfect centrepiece for an autumn weekend away.
Entry to Hanging Rock Reserve on 19 March, 20 March & 21 March 2027
The 2027 Lost Trades Fair is a declared major event day at Hanging Rock Reserve. Access to Hanging Rock across 20 and 21 March 2026, is exclusive to Lost Trades Fair ticket holders only. Event ticket fees apply and tickets must be pre-purchased. There are no gate sales. On 19 March 2026, Hanging Rock Reserve is closed for the installation of temporary event infrastructure ahead of the Lost Trades Fair.
2027 Lost Trades Fair Tickets go on sale in December 2026.
Do I need to book tickets?
Yes. Tickets must be purchased online before the event, as they are not sold at the gate. Booking early is recommended, particularly if you're travelling from Melbourne or planning a weekend in the Macedon Ranges.
Does my ticket include entry to Hanging Rock?
Yes. Your Lost Trades Fair ticket includes entry to Hanging Rock Reserve, so you can enjoy both the fair and one of Victoria's most iconic natural attractions during your visit.
Can I buy a weekend ticket?
Yes. Both single-day and weekend passes are available, giving you the flexibility to spend more time exploring the artisans, demonstrations and Hanging Rock.
Can I get a refund or change my ticket?
Tickets are generally non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another day. Check the organiser's ticket conditions before purchasing.
How do I get to the Lost Trades Fair?
Hanging Rock is an easy drive from Melbourne via the Calder Freeway. You can also catch a V/Line train to Woodend, where complimentary shuttle buses operate to the event for ticket holders throughout the weekend.
Is there parking?
Yes. Free onsite parking is available for ticket holders, with accessible parking located close to the event entrance.
How long should I spend at the Lost Trades Fair?
Allow at least four to six hours to experience the fair. If you'd like to climb Hanging Rock or explore nearby villages, wineries and gardens, consider making it a weekend escape in the Macedon Ranges.
Is the Lost Trades Fair suitable for families?
Yes. The fair is family-friendly, with fascinating demonstrations, hands-on activities for children and plenty to capture curious minds. It's an enjoyable day out for visitors of all ages.
Is the Lost Trades Fair wheelchair accessible?
Accessible parking and toilets are available onsite, and many areas of the event can be accessed by wheelchair. As the fair is held outdoors on natural surfaces, some areas may be uneven.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not permitted within the event, except for registered assistance dogs.
Can you buy things at the Lost Trades Fair?
Yes. Many artisans sell their handcrafted work, giving you the opportunity to purchase unique pieces directly from the people who made them. From ceramics and furniture to jewellery, leather goods and homewares, every purchase supports traditional craftsmanship.
What traditional crafts will I see?
The fair showcases a remarkable range of heritage trades and traditional skills, including blacksmithing, woodworking, leatherworking, weaving, pottery, silversmithing, bookbinding, basket making, tailoring, stone carving and more. Live demonstrations run throughout the weekend.
Can I climb Hanging Rock during the Lost Trades Fair?
Yes. Your ticket includes access to Hanging Rock Reserve, so you can walk to the summit, explore the reserve and enjoy its unique volcanic landscape during your visit.
What else can I do near Hanging Rock?
Extend your stay by exploring the Macedon Ranges. Visit nearby Woodend, Mount Macedon and Kyneton, discover boutique wineries, galleries and gardens, enjoy local cafés and restaurants, or head into Macedon Regional Park for scenic walks and waterfalls.
Where should I stay?
Choose from boutique hotels, country cottages, vineyard stays, luxury retreats, farm stays and campgrounds across the Macedon Ranges. As the Lost Trades Fair is one of the region's most popular events, booking accommodation well in advance is recommended.
What makes the Lost Trades Fair unique?
Few events offer the chance to see so many traditional trades demonstrated in one place. Combined with the natural beauty of Hanging Rock and the opportunity to meet the makers, the Lost Trades Fair is unlike any other artisan event in Australia.
Can I make a weekend of visiting the Lost Trades Fair?
Absolutely. Spend a day at the fair, then discover the villages, cool-climate wineries, galleries, gardens, walking trails and exceptional food and wine that make the Macedon Ranges one of Victoria's favourite regional escapes.
