The year 2000 seems like only yesterday with people from Australia and around the world celebrating the Sydney Olympics, and in the same year another amazing event was just getting underway in Lithgow, the inaugural Ironfest. Created by local artist and festival director, Macgregor Ross, the not-for-profit event was held a Lithgow's Blast Furnace and was created to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the birth of steel in Australia. Now celebrating it's 20th Anniversary, Ironfest brings together artists, designers, blacksmiths and craftsmen, street performers, cosplayers, musicians, historical re-enactors and more from across Australia.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
This year Ironfest promises even more events, spectacles and displays in another display of culture and fun. The 2019 "Once Upon A Time" theme provides an amazing opportunity for festival visitors to dress up with an endless list of choices available, while more exhibitors will be on site to show off their amazing crafts and skills.
Last year approximately 20,000 visitors enjoyed the festival across the weekend with the crowd enjoying the St George's Day Jousting Tournament, 19th and 20th century battle reenactments including the Battle of Lithgow,the Annual Cosplay Competition, along with music and big bands from across the region.
Back after a stunning debut last year is the risque "Burlesque Bandwagon" featuring Miss Kelly Ann Doll and Burlesque Hall of Famer, Jazida, along with their friends, while Byron Bay street performer, daredevil and Guinness World Record Holder "The Space Cowboy", will also return to entertain the masses with his sword swallowing and daring stunts.
This advertising feature is sponsored by the following business. Click the link to find out more.
This year will also see the introduction of brand new "Kids Kingdom", with new area set to be the ideal place for kids and their families to take a break from the hard fought battles and the general all-round hectic activity that makes Ironfest so popular. There will be a circus tent set up to take time out and it will feature a petting zoo, face-painting, visits from the friendly Furries and plenty of yummy food and drinks.
Saturday night will see the annual Ironfest Ball take place at Club Lithgow. Also following the "Once Upon A Time" theme, there will be a wonderful meal, games, a 'Best Dressed' parade and entertainment from Sideshow Annie who will be performing magic throughout the night.
Since it began Ironfest has attracted over 160,000 visitors to the region and contributed over $20 million towards the local economy. Ironfest will be held on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday April, 28 at the Lithgow Showground. For more information and a full schedule of the weekend's activities, visit https://ironfest.net/.
