19th Century
The 19th century saw the rise of the British, Russian, German, Japanese & American Empires & the decline, after the Napoleonic wars, of the French Empire It is a particularly important era for Australia as it achieved ‘nationhood’ just after the turn of the century. It was a devastating time for indigenous Australians as […]
20th Century
Experience the ground shaking thunder of an armoured column rolling by. Hear the rattle of guns and see the flashes, dust and smoke as you experience the effects of 20th Century mechanised warfare at Ironfest 2016. These coordinated battle activities, not experienced anywhere else in the world are now an annual highlight of the […]
Blacksmiths
Lithgow, once touted as the Birmingham of Australia & the birthplace of steel in Australia, was the home for literally hundreds, if not thousands of industrial blacksmiths up until the mid-20th century Today that industry has largely passed along, however, the legacy remains & now an annual migration occurs when artist blacksmiths from all […]
Kids
Ironfest is a world for kids. Apart from all the sights and sounds and thrills of life throughout the ages from ancient to an imagined future, Ironfest gives something to every kid. There’s a petting zoo where you can cuddle cute and furry animals. Toy sword and chainmail making, Try some kid’s combat in […]
Machines
2016 will feature 3 steam traction engines from the early 1900s. First up a Marshall and Sons 8 horsepower single cylinder machine. Built in 1913, it spent most of its life working in a Tasmanian sawmill. It can haul up to 80 tonnes and is in original condition. It was brought to the mainland […]
Makers
Brand new to Ironfest this year, we present the “Guild Hall”. Traditional arts from around the world will be available in the Hall of Industry. Come and see how they are made, have a go, or take home a unique piece of art by local artisans. Such as The House of Wool, who will […]
Medieval
The theme for Ironfest in 2016 is Holy Grail. The quest is upon us as we explore life in medieval times. Roar for your champion at the Joust. Witness the amazing horseback skill at arms as the knights charge the quintain. Vikings and viking weaponry glisten as they rush into the breach. Knights bow […]
Pro Wrestling
Blue Mountains Pro Wrestling is a professional wrestling organisation based in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. Our goal is to hold entertaining professional wrestling events for locals, families, tourists and weekend visitors to the Blue Mountains. Blue Mountains Pro Wrestling showcase some of the most talented and dedicated professional wrestlers in Australia, […]
Sci-Fi
Ironfest has always been open to all genres and we are seeing more and more SciFi elements in the crowd. In past years we’ve had giant astronauts roaming the grounds, HG Wells time machine for classic SF fans, the captains chair of the USS Enterprise and the helm of the USS Tydirium – Sydney’s […]
Stalls
There are hundreds of stalls at Ironfest. Flick through 2nd hand records. Scoff down some homemade cakes, Sample the dozens of food vendors from all over the world and there’s yummy vegetarian food too. Stock up on recycled tools. Get your Ironfest merchandise from the Ironfest shop. Satisfy the warrior inside with a purchase […]
Steampunk
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and sometimes fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Although its literary origins are sometimes associated with the cyberpunk genre, steampunk works are often set in an alternative history of the 19th century’s British Victorian era or American “Wild West”, in […]
Theatre
This year’s inaugural Bohemia will dazzle, and daze, tickle and jaw drop. A feast of entertainment, served up with Tantric Turtles tasty treats. Bohemia is an all day cabaret for the whole family, and sometimes, by the whole family. Acts from the furthest corners will delight and amaze festival goers. From the ridiculous, to […]