This year in 2021, we celebrate 35 years of Hunter Valley Steamfest. Maitland will welcome visitors from far and wide to experience all things steam.

Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest, one of Australia’s premier festivals of steam attracting tens of thousands of people each year, celebrates Maitland’s rich steam and industrial heritage.

Steamfest was established in 1986 following the closure of the last coal operated steam hauled freight service in Australia on the South Maitland Railway Line in 1983, Steamfest pays homage to the end of an industrial era and the men and women involved in its operation.

Steamfest features a diverse program of fun and family friendly entertainment including historic steam train trips, vintage machinery displays and demonstrations, live music, interactive heritage walks and displays, vintage car display, market stalls, food stalls, steampunkers, mini steam train rides, kid’s activities and more.

The heart and soul of Steamfest is its impressive assembly of steam trains. Grab your tickets and be part of the annual Great Train Race or take a ride on one of the many unique train trips visiting various Hunter destinations.

See how things were done in days gone by at the interactive Rally Ground display, featuring a vast array of antique machinery from all over Australia including traction and portable engines.

The annual Show ‘n’ Shine is an impressive showcase of motoring history, bringing Maitland Park to life on Sunday 18 April 2021 with over 500 classic cars, food stalls, live rock ‘n’ roll entertainment and fun for the whole family.

Be sure to come along and enjoy the festival of steam in 2021. Why not make it a long weekend and check out the Maitland Gaol, or the historic township of Morpeth.

Be sure to keep up to date on our Facebook page for event updates.