There are more reasons than ever to plan a winter escape to Central Otago, with four major events transforming Cromwell into the region's winter entertainment hub across two consecutive weekends.
From comedy and live music to internationally acclaimed performance and the Light Up Winter milestone celebration, visitors will have plenty of reasons to extend their stay or return for another weekend.
The entertainment begins on Friday 24 July, when Te Puna Mahara - Cromwell Memorial Events Centre hosts its first major ticketed event in the spectacular new auditorium. CromCom Comedy Night will feature a stellar line-up of New Zealand comedy favourites Paul Ego, Justine Smith and Josh Thomson.
The following evening, acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter Jenny Mitchell takes the stage for a special theatre performance. Now based in Melbourne and continuing to build a loyal following across Australia, the Gore-born artist will deliver an intimate evening of storytelling and song, becoming the first musician to perform at Te Puna Mahara.
The second weekend of entertainment begins on Friday 31 July with Everybody Knows, presented by internationally acclaimed sketch comedy and circus company Laser Kiwi. Packed with absurd humour, physical comedy and extraordinary circus skills, the award-winning production has delighted audiences around the world.
The two-week celebration concludes on Saturday 1 August with the milestone 10th anniversary of Light Up Winter. Taking over Anderson Park in the heart of Cromwell, the free community event has become one of Central Otago's most anticipated winter gatherings.
The park will once again be transformed into a glowing winter wonderland featuring illuminated woodland walks, enchanting fairies, live entertainment, delicious street food, Thomas the Train rides, the colourful Light Up Your Hat competition and the spectacular Mass Lantern Release. The magic doesn't end with the lanterns, with organisers marking the milestone year with a spectacular laser show to close the evening.
Visitors can warm up in the Crystal Pavilion with mulled wine or hot chocolate while enjoying the unique atmosphere that has made Light Up Winter a favourite for families throughout the region.
Te Puna Mahara Venue Director Will Harris said the combination of events presents a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors.
"Having four major events across two weekends creates a fantastic reason for people to visit Cromwell this winter. Whether you're coming for comedy, live music, family entertainment or simply a winter escape, there's plenty happening to fill a weekend – and even more reason to come back for both."
Cromwell and Districts Promotions Group Chair Caitlin Dykes said the 10th anniversary of Light Up Winter would be a special occasion.
"Light Up Winter has become one of the region's most-loved winter traditions, and we're excited to celebrate its tenth year with the community and visitors from across Central Otago and beyond. We're planning our biggest celebration yet and can't wait to share the magic with everyone."
Tickets for all performances at Te Puna Mahara are available now. Light Up Winter is free to attend, with a voluntary gold coin donation welcomed.
