2025
Metal, Memory, and Community Shine at Blacksmiths Festival 2025
On 17 and 18 May 2025, the serene banks of the Maribyrnong River once again came alive with the roar of forges and the ring of hammers for the much-anticipated return of the Blacksmiths Festival. With generous support from the Maribyrnong City Council and the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund, this free, biennial celebration of fire, metal, and community drew thousands of visitors to Footscray for two unforgettable days of creativity and connection.
Artists, families, furry friends and curious onlookers flocked to the riverside to experience a packed program of live blacksmithing demonstrations, hands-on workshops, artisan market stalls, and artist talks. The Kidsmith Zone was a resounding hit, with children eagerly queuing to forge their own metal creations with guidance from skilled blacksmiths. For a small donation, kids under twelve proudly took home their handcrafted treasures—many experiencing the magic of blacksmithing for the first time.
Honouring legacy through collaborative art
A showcase of the 2025 festival was the collaborative forging masterclass project led by Canadian master blacksmith Sandra Dunn. Over five days, she and a team of thirteen blacksmiths crafted a contemplative sculptural seat in memory of the late Councillor Sarah Carter. Forged with heart, fire, and artistry, this seat symbolises transformation, history and remembrance. Once installed near the festival site, it will offer a lasting space for reflection and honor Councillor Carter’s enduring legacy in the community.
Blacksmith Games Arena
The brand-new Blacksmiths Games Arena was a festival favorite, bringing a playful spirit to the craft with a range of handcrafted, blacksmith-inspired challenges for all ages. The standout hit was Do-the-Twist, where participants experienced the joy of shaping red-hot steel—many for the first time—and proudly took home their very own twisted creation.
Workshops for all
Festival workshops were in high demand, with sessions tailored for diverse audiences:
Introduction to Blacksmithing for Women, led by American smith Annie Cole Arthur, empowered participants to forge functional coat racks and explore a new creative skill.
The Make Your Own Fidget workshop provided a supportive space for neurodivergent individuals to design and forge their own unique tactile tools.
Quick and engaging Give-it-a-Go sessions offered a perfect entry point into the world of blacksmithing for the blacksmith-curious.
Showcasing Talent
The return of the 150mmChallengeAus Exhibition once again showcased the astonishing talent within the blacksmithing community. Visitors were awed by the transformation of 150mm metal bars into intricate sculptures and had the opportunity to bid on their favorite pieces. In 2025 the festival received a record 44 entries across two categories - Original and the Cube, with Rebecca Lloyd from South Australia awarded the People’s Choice Award.
Artist Alley
For the first time, Artist Alley brought together three local blacksmiths and metal artists, giving attendees the chance to meet the makers, hear their stories, and purchase unique, handcrafted works.
Speed forging
This year’s Blacksmiths Festival saw the thrilling debut of Speed Forging, where blacksmiths had just 10 minutes to turn raw steel into creative, functional, or decorative pieces under pressure. With a buzzing crowd packed into the studio, the atmosphere was electric as sparks flew and hammers rang out. Cheered on by an enthusiastic audience, the smiths delivered incredible results—and a few lucky spectators even got to take home one-of-a-kind creations fresh from the forge!
The 2025 Blacksmiths Festival was more than an event—it was a celebration of tradition, innovation, and togetherness. We thank everyone who participated, attended, volunteered, or supported the festival in any way. Your enthusiasm keeps the fire burning.
See you in 2027!
