About Abbey History Festival 2026
Celebrating 40 years of the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology!
Hosted by the award-winning team that bring you the Abbey Medieval Festival, embark on a Journey through the Ages at Abbeystowe, from Ancient Rome through to the 20th Century at the Abbey History Festival.
From the ancient artefacts in the Abbey Museum to real life reenactment, we’re bringing our collection to life with workshops, performances and demonstrations to transport you through time. Immerse yourself in an authentic and interactive experience suitable for the entire family!
Across the weekend, visitors can journey through pockets of time from the Nordic Realm to Pemberley Promenade to No Man’s Land (WWI), where dedicated reenactors, musicians, performers, and creators showcase their passion and expertise through immersive living history experiences.
The merchants return to the Abbeystowe Market to bring you a bustling centre for villagers, with flavours to tempt your tastebuds and wares to lighten your purse.
Step into the Music Hall for two days of music and dancing through time, from lively medieval jigs and elegant Regency dances to the vibrant movement and rhythm of traditional Japanese Awa-Odori.
Enjoy the return of many beloved Abbeystowe favourites, from sharing a refreshing beverage at the Stag Inn, drawing back the bowstring at the Abbey Archery range, or meeting the Birds of Prey.
Turn your eyes to the skies and watch vintage planes pass overhead for a dazzling air show.
Step into the Lecture Hall and discover the stories behind the ages, as historical experts share captivating talks exploring ancient cultures, life, traditions, and the evolution of societies through time.
Young adventurers can journey into the Kids Dig It! Kingdom for hands-on crafts and interactive activities or see the schedule for puppet shows and traditional children’s games promising fun for all ages.
With a vibrant 2-day program to suit all ages and interests, there’s all of history to explore at Abbeystowe.
If you love the Abbey Medieval Festival, join us at Abbeystowe this September for an even more intimate journey through history. Don your finest historical costume and step through the gates into immersive worlds of the past, with a smaller capacity event designed to bring you closer to the experience.
If 2026 marks your inaugural visit (to our Abbeystowe site), stay informed about event details by regularly checking our website and following us on Facebook and Instagram. Keep the excitement alive as we release updates through these channels closer to the event.
See our event Terms & Conditions here.
Companion Card Holders:
If you are attending with a Companion Card holder, please ensure you have a valid Adult or Concession ticket when arriving on site and present your companion card for one complimentary entry.
Concession cards must be presented upon entry. Concession cards accepted:
- Veterans with a white or gold Veteran Card or DVA Health Card
- Seniors with a valid Seniors Card from any state or territory
- Tertiary/post-secondary students with a valid student ID card.
- Disability Support Pension card.
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