The Bugle headed up to the Southern Highlands over the long weekend to see what was happening across the region - and there is plenty happening.

The Horizontal Festival, held at Centennial Vineyards was pumping on Saturday and continues today (Sunday), offering a showcase of the best food, wine, and produce New South Wales has to offer.

Across four curated sessions over two days - midday and evening - festivalgoers can taste, sip, savour, and explore their way through themed zones celebrating the state’s culinary and creative talent.

Guests wandered between the Sparkling Bar, where oysters and classical music set a refined tone, and The Vineyard, which channelled Italian flair with antipasto and crisp whites. In the Rosé Room, wine education and masterclasses proved popular, while the Red Wine Barrel Room offered a more decadent pairing experience. Outside, the Hops Garden & Orchard buzzed with craft beer, distillers, food trucks, and a lively concert stage that kept energy high all afternoon.

Highlights included live performances and a DJ garden set, with wine, cheese, and distillery tastings all included in the general admission price. Platinum guests enjoyed an exclusive Brokenwood Wine Tasting, while The Masterclass Series drew crowds eager to learn from some of Australia’s best - including chefs Mark Best, Mindy Woods, Simon Evans, and Sarah McDougall.

Producers from across the state showcased their wares, including Dharawal Distillery, Dawning Day Wines, Lerida Estate, Bowral Honey Farm, Red Mill Rum, Apple Thief Cider, Lord Howe Island Distillery, Centennial Wines, SoHi (to die for cocktails), and many more. Local Highlands business Alka Power also kept patrons refreshed at their on-site hydration station.

In all, more than 75 producers, chefs, artisans, brewers, winemakers, and artists took part, celebrating the region’s growing reputation as a food and wine destination.

Meanwhile, in Robertson, the BABE celebrations of 30 years are in full swing adding to the fun of the long weekend.

From fine wine to farmyard fun, there’s still time for a Sunday drive over the mountain!

Photo Credits Bellinda Dunn

Social photos from the weekend will be put up on Scintillating Socials on the Bugle App