Posted inGlen Innes, Markets and Fairs, What's on

Community and craft unite at Glen Innes Church Fete

Highland Dancing at last year's Church Fete. Image courtesy of the Visit NSW website

Glen Innes locals and visitors are invited to a rich day of tradition, creativity and community at the Annual Fete, Floral Display & Quilting Exhibit hosted by Holy Trinity Anglican Church. It’s the kind of welcoming event where neighbours come together, talents shine, and community spirit is on full display.

Slated for Saturday, 25 October 2025 (from 9.00 am), the fete will include a floral display in the church, quilting exhibits, food stalls, baked goods, arts, crafts, a kids’ corner and live performances from local dance groups and musicians. It’s not just about showcasing work; it’s about connecting people through creativity, conversation and community pride.

Parish secretary Lesley Clibborn tells us this is the 55th year the community has come together for the Fete.

“The whole town always looks forward to the day,” she said.

“It’s always such a joy to work on and be a part of because everyone just works so well together and the focus is always on the community and the people and groups that make Glen Innes such a great town.”

Over the years, this fete has become a highlight for Glen Innes, offering a chance to slow down, visit with neighbours, admire handiwork, and enjoy the simple pleasures of local culture. Whether you’re interested in florals, quilting, browsing stalls, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

“We were looking for something new this year and someone suggested quilting so we’re really excited to be able to feature the local quilting group’s work,” said Ms Clibborn.

“There will also be a live quilting demonstration in the church for anyone interested.”

Also new for this year is an ice cream bar.

“We’ve always done waffles in previous years, but we’ve decided to switch over to an ice cream bar for people to enjoy something sweet. It will be set up next to our gourmet BBQ,” said Ms Clibborn.

When asked if there are any crowd favourites, Ms Clibborn tells us that it is without a doubt the plant stall.

“It’s always incredibly popular and the weather has been good this year, it’s going to be absolutely massive!” she said.

Also, a favourite is the live performances by local acts and school groups.

“We have the Glen Innes Public School bringing 2 choirs and a band, then some of the smaller schools have got together and formed the Highland Small Schools Alliance, and they will also be doing a couple of group performances,” said Ms Clibborn.

“And we’ll also have some other local live music acts coming on the day – it’s just a great platform for local talent to come and perform in a lovely environment.”

Held in and around the grounds of Holy Trinity Anglican Church (76 Meade Street, Glen Innes), the event is typically cash-only, so attendees are encouraged to bring small change for stalls and refreshments. All proceeds go towards the Church. Organisers also encourage volunteers and stallholders to participate.


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Penelope Shaw is a freelance writer for the New England Times. With a background in English Literature, she will always have a special place in her heart for anything to do with books or live performance....