HOW TO: Enjoy the Long Weekend in Bright (IF there's no snow to ski!)

No snow, No skis? No problem! Here's how to do Bright this long weekend, snow or no snow.

Planning a long weekend escape to the High Country for the start of the ski season? Don’t worry if the snow doesn't fall - there’s still plenty to love about Bright this King’s Birthday weekend, even if the snow season is a little slow to start. Think beautiful crisp mornings, lingering Autumn colour, cosy dinners, new cafés, spirited tastings, and alpine events that don’t require skis or boards.

Here’s your guide to enjoying the King’s Birthday weekend, even without the white stuff...

SATURDAY

Start with coffee at Botanic Alps

Our friends at Sixpence Coffee aren't open on weekends so it's time to try something new! Botanic Alps, Bright’s newest café, is already winning hearts with its brewed matcha and chai. Sip slowly while you browse their lush collection of plants and eco-conscious beauty products - this is your soft launch into the long weekend.

Ski Season Opening – Hotham, Falls Creek & Dinner Plain

The alpine resorts officially open this weekend - even if Mother Nature’s playing it cool. While early snow might be patchy, there’s usually still plenty of action in the villages: live music, après scenes, and possibly manmade snowplay for the kids. No ski pass needed to join the fun! Check out the individual resorts for activities and entertainment.

Koji Spirit Tasting Flight at Spirit Lab

Swing by our Spirit Lab from 12pm and explore our range of Australian-made Koji Spirits. From smooth, bright Shochu to seasonal distillations, it’s a unique tasting experience for lovers of fermentation and flavour. Walk-ins welcome or book ahead to reserve your seat.

Dinner Plain Snow Dance & Fireworks

Head up the hill to Dinner Plain this evening for this family-friendly winter celebration. Expect live music, hearty street food, and fireworks under the alpine sky.

SUNDAY

Breakfast at Riff Raff

Formerly Ginger Baker, now reborn as Riff Raff, this long-standing café has had a full glow-up. Expect a new breakfast menu and a strong coffee game featuring local Sixpence Coffee.

Morning ride or walk at Mystic

Explore the trails around Mystic Park and enjoy the Hero dirt than happens at this time of year. Whether you're a mountain biker or bushwalker, the cool morning air and golden light make it well worth an early start - and if you're prepared to ride or hike, no uplift ticket is required!

Mount Beauty Market

Why not head over the (Tawgona) Gap and hit up the Mount Beauty Market? It's one of Victoria's oldest and much loved community markets, running since 1979. Bursting with colour, creativity and community spirit, it's a great place to shop, eat, listen to live music and soak up the friendly mountain atmosphere.

Dinner at Koji Bird Restaurant – rare Sunday opening!

For one night only, we're opening our doors on a Sunday for the long weekend. Join us at Koji Bird for meals cooked over coals matched with warming cocktails and impeccable service. This one will fill fast so book your table early.

Last call for bottles

We’ll be closing our venue for a short winter break starting Monday, so if you’ve been meaning to stock up on gin, Shochu, or cocktail essentials, this is your last chance to visit us in person. After that, you’ll still be able to find bottles online, or at Sixpence Coffee.

MONDAY – KING’S BIRTHDAY

Snowplay at Falls Creek or Dinner Plain

Wrap up the long weekend with a more relaxed snow day. Both resorts offer great beginner terrain, play zones, and quieter Monday crowds. Check resort updates for current conditions.