Cabin Fever Fest 2023
Dreary winter blahs got you down? Then, pack up your coziest gear and head to the Cabin Fever Fest in Margaret River.
For the past seven years, the Margaret River Region, and the amazing team at AHOY management have rolled out the welcome mat for guests from near and far. The attraction is Cabin Fever Fest, a ten-day celebration of all the best experiences the region has to offer.
This year, from 14-23 July, a gathering like no other will take place in the region. Over 50 events are planned to delight guests and highlight everything the area has to offer. Guests will enjoy bonfires, local wines and spirits, exciting live music, activities, and so much more.
Looking to the Future While Building on the Past
What began as a way to beat the mid-winter blues in 2017 has evolved into a highly anticipated event that draws an international audience. Cabin Fever is more than fantastic wine, bonfires, and cheese toasties.
So Much to Do
Cabin Fever Fest has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether with your best mates trying the region’s best bourbon or snuggling with your sweetie near the bonfire, you can choose activities and events that make the festival feel uniquely yours.
Here are some of the fantastic activities and events available:
The Ultimate Winter Long Lunch
The Cabin, presented by Shelter Brewing Co.
11 Foreshore Parade, Busselton, WA 6280
Friday 14 July 12:00-4:00
Guests 18 and older can enjoy a one-of-a-kind four-course lunch featuring local produce prepared by renowned chefs, all masters of their cuisines. The finest local offerings will be reimagined by Chef Rishi Naleendra of Michelin-starred Cloudstreet Singapore, Evan Hayter of Arimia, Calum MacKechnie of Lalla Rookh and Luke Foyle from Juanita’s Bar Subiaco.
Tickets are available for purchase.
Blazing Brews
Beerfarm
177 Gale Rd, Metricup WA 6280
Friday 14 July, 7:00-
The night would not be complete without the best bonfire you will ever see. An iconic event is symbolic of Cabin Fever Fest, you will not want to miss this celebration. Guests over 18 can enjoy a lively gathering featuring Beerfarm brews, food, and an epic live music line-up. This event sells out quickly.
Tickets are available.
Whisky, Burgers, and Blues
Bayside Burger Bar
239 Naturaliste Terrace, Dunsborough, WA 6281
Sunday 16 July, 3:00-5:00
Learn about Australia’s finest whiskies while enjoying sliders and the blues. Guests 18 and older will sample a flight of five unique whiskies, southern-style sliders, and a background of blues music to help ease you into the night.
Tickets are available.
The Cheese Toastie Battle
The Cabin, presented by Shelter Brewing Co.
11 Foreshore Parade, Busselton, WA 6280
Sunday 16 July, 6:00-8:30
A battle for the ages as competitors fight to see whose cheese toastie reigns supreme. Guests over 18 can enjoy a drink and samples of five cheese toasties before helping decide the winner.
Tickets are available.
Rhum Burgundy Cocktail Masterclass
Rhum Burgundy
107 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River, WA 6285
Monday 17 July 5:30-7:00, 6:00-7:30, 7:30-9:00, 8:00-9:30
Thursday 20 July 5:30-7:00, 6:00-7:30, 7:30-9:00, 8:00-9:30
Learn how to make three different cocktails under the direction of renowned mixologist Billy Phillips. A great way to learn and enjoy unique creations. 18 and over, please.
Tickets are available.
Mariachi Mingle
The Common Bar & Bistro
1 Resort Pl, Gnarabup WA 6285
Wednesday, 19 July, 4:00-10:00
Join the 18 and over crowd and enjoy the Mariachi Mingle at the Common Bar and Bistro. You can enjoy five different spicy margaritas plus a taco bar while feeling the beat of the music with a Mexican flare. There will be contests for the best dressed, live music, and a DJ.
Tickets are available.
Winter Wine Walk
Various venues throughout Margaret River townsite
Saturday, 22 July, 11:30- 3:30, 1:00-5:00
The Winter Wine Walk will take you to four of the region’s best-kept secrets, where wine and luncheon fare will warm you. Toss on a cosy coat and comfy shoes, then enjoy a progressive wine and lunch adventure with Walk, Talk, Taste Margaret River. 18 and older, please.
Tickets are available.
Our Businesses and Vendors
At Cabin Fever Fest, you can experience some of the finest offerings in the Margaret River Region. Be sure to look for these and many others who make this event extraordinary.
- Settlers Tavern
114 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River WA 6285
This year’s home of the exceptional Black Truffle Dinner, Settler’s Tavern, is a landmark in the region. Established in 1977, it has been the site for great drinks, exceptional food, and the hottest live music performances.
- Leeuwin Estate
Stevens Rd, Margaret River WA 6285
One of the famous five founding wineries in the region, Leeuwin Estate will host the incomparable Savouring the Art of Shiraz event during Cabin Fever Fest. The family-owned business has lovingly crafted award-winning wines since the late 1970s.
- Burnside Organic Farm
287 Burnside Rd, Margaret River WA 6285
An incredible example of the future of sustainable living, Burnside Organic Farm prides itself on hand-managed vineyards that are Demeter Biodynamic certified. The farm will host A Puglian Farm Feast.
- New Wave Studio
15 Fresian Street, Cowaramup, WA 6284
This brilliant art studio will host the Cabin Fever Fest event Sip-n-Print. Visit the studio and prepare to be amazed.
- Clairault Striecker
3277 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup WA 6282
The renowned family-owned grower and wine producer Clairault Streicker Wines have set the benchmark for Margaret River Wines since the early 2000s. This will be the site of Cabin Fever Fest’s Flames + Games, Where sipping wine and playing board games is an event.
A massive experience like Cabin Fever Fest can only happen with the participation of an outstanding collection of local businesses, talented vendors, and many dedicated professionals. The best way to thank them is with your support and patronage, not just during Cabin Fever Fest but throughout the year.
Plan Ahead
The Cabin Fever Fest is the ultimate mid-winter getaway and an ideal way to let loose and have some fun. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time in the Margaret River Region during Cabin Fever Fest.
- Start planning by visiting the Cabin Fever website for all the unique activities available. Make a list of those that sound the most enjoyable.
- Once you know what activities you want to try, be sure you buy your tickets early because many events sell out quickly. You can easily purchase tickets from the Cabin Fever website.
- You will also want to figure out accommodations in advance. There are several exceptional properties in the Margaret River Region.
Cabin Fever Fest might be perfect for you if you are ready to do some serious celebrating instead of hibernating. You cannot go wrong with a fantastic chalet in Forest Rise for idyllic lodgings. Their accommodations are a spectacular blend of luxury in a natural environment.
While at Cabin Fever Fest, you can enter to win one of two prize packages, including two nights’ accommodations at Forest Rise Chalets. Be sure to book early and contact Forest Rise directly to receive a seasonal welcome pack of delightful favourites from local shops when you stay two or more nights. Cabin Fever Special: Receive a s’mores hampers and a bottle of local red when booking during Cabin Fever.