Galvanized is the city’s festival of heritage, showcasing the best heritage experiences and events Ipswich has to offer across 10 days from 5 to 14 September. 

Enjoy visiting iconic venues and historic sites, participate in open days, tours, demonstrations, workshops and social events that bring history to life – perfect for curious minds and heritage lovers alike.

2025 Festival Snapshot:

GREAT PLACES OF IPSWICH
Opening the doors to some of the city’s most significant heritage sites, rarely accessible to the public. Explore remarkable buildings including exclusive access to the historic Great Hall at Ipswich Grammar School. Discover the people and stories behind these treasured sites.

SOCIAL EVENTS
Relive historical dance and music from the 1800s, dance until you drop at a post WWII victory inspired dinner dance, visit incredible historic locations, enjoy live music, smoked meats, artisan demos and hands-on history.

TOURS
Enjoy guided bus, walking and evening tours of historic Ipswich. Learn the stories of the people and places of Ipswich’s past, from beautiful buildings to local watering holes and historic families.

VISIT
Experience life in the past, explore antiques, wander through a magnificent display of quilts and craft from talented artisans and uncover more about those who contributed to Ipswich life and the building of a community.

WATCH AND LEARN
Make and create, learning new skills in workshops from leatherwork to knife making, letterpress printing and blacksmithing. Immerse yourself in talks or trivia!

HAUNTED
Take a stroll through the most haunted places in Ipswich and scare yourself silly with tales of mystery, statues that move and creepy children’s handprints on cars.

ONLINE
Recreate, name or locate your own classic image through the Picture Ipswich Collection.

EAT AND DRINK
Dine out with a heritage twist and discover the charm of some of the oldest buildings in Ipswich while enjoying everything from jacaranda cocktails and heritage city gin to high teas, authentic Indian and a special Galvanized ale.