Sailing events run across the two day Festival, the highlight being the Grand Parade for all boats, led by Festival flagship Goolwa’s Paddlesteamer Oscar W. A viewing spectacle not to be missed.

Wooden Boats, all shapes and sizes, vintage sailing yachts, traditional riverboats, putt putts, steamboats, clinker boats, canoes and model boats on display. Talk to the owners, builders and craftsman and hear their stories.

Watch skilled craftspeople keep maritime traditions alive through live demonstrations of wooden boatbuilding, timber bending, rope work, splicing, caulking and restoration.

One of the festival's most cherished traditions, the Steam Salute brings together the Cockle Train and PS Oscar W in a stirring exchange of steam whistles, honouring Goolwa's unique transport heritage at one of the only places in the world where rail and river steam still connect.

Local and Adelaide entertainers including musicians, street artists and face painters, perform across the weekend.

The Festival Art Trail showcases some of South Australia’s most talented Artists, an exciting mix of traditional & contemporary Exhibitions.

We celebrate the high quality, fresh and seasonal artisan food of the Alexandrina region. Enjoy a variety of local food and beverage throughout the festival weekend.

Enjoy a unique river experience from the decks of the heritage Paddle Steamer Oscar W, a wood fired, steam powered vessel built in 1908 and still operating from Goolwa Wharf Precinct. Celebrating over 100 years life on the river, passengers can watch the stokers fire the boiler, see the wheelhouse, and take in the sights of the Lower River Murray.

Step inside one of the Murray River's historic gems and discover traditional wooden boatbuilding and restoration in action, guided by the passionate volunteers keeping this remarkable craft and community alive.

Experience the stories, traditions and living culture of the Ngarrindjeri people through a program of cultural activities and the award-winning Yuntulun Ku:li-war exhibition at the Signal Point Experience Centre.