Queenstown is set to celebrate an early start to winter, with Snow Fest marking the occasion following the arrival of Coronet Peak’s new Snow Factory.
Taking place across downtown Queenstown and Coronet Peak, the two-day event brings back some of the region’s well-known Winter Festival traditions, alongside a fresh new lineup of activities and entertainment.
Snow Fest will run across King’s Birthday Weekend, with a mix of community events, family activities, skiing culture, and après-ski celebrations planned throughout the weekend.
Friday, 29 May
7.30am – Polar Plunge
Snow Fest begins with an early-morning plunge into Lake Wakatipu, featuring an 80s-themed warm-up, MC Dominic Bowden, spot prizes, and complimentary coffee and pastries at the Bathhouse.
12pm – Queenstown Business Lunch
Held at Skyline Queenstown’s Stratosphere Restaurant, industry leaders will discuss the role snow plays in the regional economy.
From 3pm – Downtown Rail Jam
Local skiers and snowboarders will take on a large rail setup in central Queenstown, with food trucks and family-friendly entertainment adding to the winter atmosphere.
Saturday, 30 May
10am–2pm – Family Fun Day
Coronet Peak will celebrate the Snow Factory and the early opening* with snow play, face painting, and activities for families and children.
11am – Suitcase Race
One of the classic Winter Festival events returns to Coronet Peak, sponsored by Queenstown Airport, with competitors racing down the slopes aboard suitcases.
11.30am – Snow Dig
Coronet Peak’s Snow Factory will produce a large pile of snow hiding a range of prizes, including on-mountain giveaways and Snow Fest surprises.
4pm – Altitude Après Session
Snow Fest wraps up with a relaxed après-ski session at Altitude Brew Room, featuring a DJ, happy-hour drinks, and giveaways.
*Coronet Peak will open early on 29 May with the Snow Play area and conveyor lifts operating only. The full mountain, along with The Remarkables, opens on 13 June.