THE hugely popular Derwent Valley Autumn Festival is back after being cancelled for two years running due to Covid-19.

The event will be held on Sunday, April 3, next year and will mark the 20th anniversary of the festival.

The event showcases the Valley in the best possible way and draws visitors from across the state.

Autumn in the Derwent Valley is arguably the most beautiful season and the region shines.

On Sunday the volunteers behind the festival announced its return.

“Fantastic news to brighten up this rainy, windy Sunday,’’ they announced.

“We are pleased to announce that our 20th Derwent Valley Autumn Festival will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2022.

“Due to finalising and working with Covid regulations , information for stallholders, performers, patrons, etc will be released over the coming months.

“We would like to thank everyone for your patience over the previous year, and we look forward to seeing you in April.’’

The event will be held on The Esplanade where oaks, elms, poplars and willows bring autumn colours to life.

More than 15,000 visitors attended the festival when it was last held in 2019, making it the largest event in the Derwent Valley.

The festival was first conceived in 2000 by two Derwent Valley councillors who wanted to build the community’s spirits after prolonged period of recession.

Derwent Valley Mayor Ben Shaw welcomed the news.

“Brilliant news,” Mr Shaw said.

“Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the small group of volunteers our Autumn Festival is returning,’’ Mr Shaw said.

“Against popular belief this is not a council-run event.”

“Council supports this event financially but it’s completely run by volunteers, so they have done an amazing job to get it back on track.’’

Traditionally the free event hosts a wide range of entertainment and food stalls.

The Derwent Valley Gazette will keep readers informed and updated on the festival as it gets closer to April.

Feature Image Credit; Tourism Tasmania and Rob Bennett