Everything you need to know about visiting the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival in Katoomba
Why go to the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival?
In their own eloquent words, the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival ‘aims to elevate and inspire readers to new levels of curiosity, intrigue and possibility’. What could be better, for an aspiring or hobbyist writer, than that?
There are more than 40 different sessions, including with author talks, panel conversations, children's events, performances, and writing workshops. Better still, you can tailor your own experience, with either a day or a weekend pass, or even just attend the events that interest you the most.
Image by Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival
What’s involved other than writing?
Previous festivals have involved dance, spoken word poetry, light projections, and pyjama parties for the kids, so you’re sure to be entertained, as well as inspired.
Where to eat and drink nearby?
The Carrington itself offers delicious gourmet fare, but the festival is also in the heart of Katoomba, so you’ll be able to enjoy any kind of cuisine you want, whether it’s a casual café brunch or Vietnamese street food.
When is it?
The Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival is on the 1st-3rd November 2024. We definitely recommend booking accommodation well in advance, as Katoomba gets busy quickly when a treat like this comes to town.
Do I need to book tickets?
Yes. Tickets can be purchased via their website.
Where’s the best place to stay?
Katoomba, certainly! The Writers’ Festival really makes the most of some of Katoomba’s most famous spaces, and the inspiring scenery adds to the romance, so it’s fitting to stay in town too.
How do I get to the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival?
You can drive from Sydney to Katoomba in 1.5 to 2 hours or take a train from Sydney Central Station. Trains leave roughly every hour and take you straight to Katoomba Train station, although it’s worth checking with Transport NSW before you leave.
Where exactly is the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival in Katoomba?
The festival is held at a carefully chosen array of incredible venues, including the historic Carrington Hotel Ballroom, Grand Dining Room, the Avalon and the Baroque Room.
The workshops will be hosted at The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and Library, and there will also be events at the brand-new Eleanor Dark stage, an impressive 250-person capacity marquee.
How do I get to the Writers’ Festival from Careel Cottages?
It’s a 12-minute walk or a 3-minute drive from Careel Cottages to The Carrington, where it all begins, so getting there is relatively easy.
Blue Mountains FAQs
For more useful information that will help you plan your stay, we invite you to take a look at our Visiting the Blue Mountains FAQ guide, which will help you plan when to come, what to wear, where to stay and more.
What are some other things to do in Katoomba and the Blue Mountains?
If you're looking for more entertainment and interesting things to do, check out our other articles on the Best Live Music in the Blue Mountains, the Best Art Galleries in the Blue Mountains and Blue Mountains Events.
If you're looking for some well-deserved grub and or a few drinks in this charming area, we've put together some guides on the Best Restaurants in the Blue Mountains, and the Best Pubs and Bars in the Blue Mountains. We hope you have an amazing stay.