Solstice Search Party 2024

Embrace the dark and celebrate the longest night of the year at Solstice Search Party.

Now in its third year, we are excited to once again invite visitors of all ages to take part in this free event celebrating winter in Warrnambool and our creative connection to land and raw wild nature.

This year, the event will take on a new life in the beautiful Lake Pertobe precinct on the Warrnambool Foreshore!

A fantastic array of live music has been curated by the team at Raglan Presents, with 2023 Triple J Unearthed High finalist Lotte Gallagher to be supported by local acts Evie Mae, Gabby Steel, Billy Barker and DJ Good Intentions.

Fresh Market Warrnambool will be serving you up local delights from Bunz, Jets Dumplings, Juns Home Kitchen, Bambino Pizza, Sunbear BBQ, Dutch Pancakes, Belly Bun, Smokin Bool, Twissto and Piccolo Coffee. Our friends over the road at the Beach Kiosk will also be open on the night with delicious Fish N Chips available. 

Throughout time, Winter Solstice rituals have revolved around fire. In 2024, we welcome WildHoney Performing Arts to the Solstice Search party team. They invite you to gather around the fire effigy, a rustic metal brazier, set with aromatic bushwood and spices. You can dance and participate in a sensory experience and celebration of renewal, joy, and the light’s return with The Red Priestess, The Illuminates and The Green Woman.

Lake Pertobe will also be illuminated with an immersive collection of Carla Obrien’s latest neon light installations. You will be able to wander the gardens and experience the lights as the sun goes down and night sets in.

Wondering what's happening and when? Check out our schedule of all the amazing things happening below...
2:30pm - Welcome to Country, Neon Lights turn on and face painting kicks off
2:50pm - Evie Mae takes the stage
3:55pm - up next… Gabby Steel
4:00pm - Be mesmerised by The Illuminates
5:00pm - The Red Priestess will light the Fire Effigy
5:20pm - Music by Billy Barker
6:00pm - Illuminates emerge for a final voyage
6:30pm - Headline act Lotte Gallagher
7:00pm - The Green Woman wanders
7:30pm - Wrapping up with DJ Good Intentions
8:30pm - Close

There’ll be plenty of other enchanting experiences at this year’s Solstice Search Party. Register for your free ticket to stay up to date with the latest event information and any changes to plans due to weather.

This also helps us plan to make this free event the best experience possible for you.

Don’t forget to bring your torch and be prepared for all the elements! Umbrellas, gumboots and a camping chair are recommended!

Solstice Search Party is an all ages, drug and alcohol free event, brought to you by Warrnambool City Council.