As the High Country settles into winter, Mansfield finds a warm glow of its own as it prepares to host the annual Mansfield Lantern Festival from 19 - 21 June.
Every year at the winter solstice, something magical happens in Mansfield as the streets fill with light, open fires crackle in the cold and hundreds of handmade lanterns move through the town carried by people who have come from near and far to be part of something together.
On the Friday, enjoy an opening ceremony, lantern making workshops, food and drink under fairy lights, and winter solstice menus across town.
Saturday is the main event, featuring open fires, live music, local food and drink, street performers, and the much loved Community Bank Mansfield & District Lantern parade lighting up the night from 5:30pm.
Start the solstice slowly on the Sunday morning with Yoga among lanterns, followed by a long and leisurely brunch.
The Mansfield Lantern Festival has been running since 2015, with more than 3500 people joining in each year.
For travellers looking to experience something uniquely local this winter, the Mansfield Lantern Festival stands out.
In a region known for its natural beauty, this event reminds us that the brightest lights often come from community.