One of the Hunter Valley’s most-loved events is back and it’s bigger, better, and in a brand-new location.
Stomp Festival Cessnock will return on Saturday 30 August 2025, bringing with it a full day of fun, flavour and family-friendly entertainment.
This year, for the first time, it’ll take place on the spacious grounds of TAFE NSW Cessnock, offering more room for attractions, local producers and visitors to stretch out and enjoy the festivities.
Thousands are expected to attend the event that will run from 10am to 8pm, and feature live music, artisan markets, gourmet food and drink stalls, and a lively kids’ zone all while celebrating the rich wine and agricultural heritage of the Cessnock region.
At the heart of the festival is the crowd-favourite grape stomping competition, where teams of all ages will take off their shoes and jump into the traditional art of winemaking with no experience required.
Reigning champions, the Khartoum Hotel, will return to defend their title in the corporate category as local businesses get messy in a bid for glory and prizes for the chance to win
The iconic Kitchener pub, now under new ownership and management, is under pressure to prove that changes at the top doesn’t mean a change in winning form.
New owner of the Khartoum Hotel Chris White said his crew was ready for a little friendly rivalry.
“Win or lose, it’s fantastic to be involved,” he added.
“It’s a great community that we’re a part of.
“To our fellow competitors, we say: look out! The champs are here.”
For those looking for a different kind of challenge, the rolling barrel races promise plenty of laughs and a touch of competitive spirit.
Cessnock City mayor Dan Watton said the Stomp Festival was a great celebration for the local community.
“Events like the grape stomping competition highlight how our local business community is entwined with our community,” he explained.
“It’s wonderful to see much-loved local venues like the Khartoum Hotel getting involved again. Who can step up and take the crown?”
“By bringing visitors from outside the region, we expect to drive significant economic activity and boost local business sales, particularly in the tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors.”
Festival-goers will have the chance to meet and sample the wares of local artisans, winemakers, distillers and brewers, with plenty of handmade crafts, gourmet delights, and festival memorabilia available to take home.
For the younger crowd, the kids’ zone will be buzzing with face painting, interactive activities and more, keeping little ones entertained while parents relax with a glass of something local.
Peterson Wines director Savannah Peterson admitted Stomp was the perfect opportunity to put the region’s world-class produce in the spotlight.
“It’s an ideal platform to introduce new audiences to the premium wines the Hunter Valley has to offer,” she said.
It’s also good news for local accommodation providers.
Jo Minett of Bonvilla Estate said she’s already seen a spike in bookings.
“Events like Stomp create a significant boost to the visitor economy. It’s clear that the festival will bring even more people to the region for extended stays.”
With its new home offering even more space to soak up the region’s culture, food, and hospitality, Stomp Festival Cessnock 2025 is shaping up to be a must-attend event on the winter calendar.
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