Warm up with Winter Wonderfest

Carla Donson

There's plenty to warm the heart in this year's Winter Wonderfest, to be held August 12-26.

Now in its second year, the Winter Wonderland is a festival organised by Carla Donson from the Women's Network Whanganui. It's a sister festival to La Fiesta, which takes place every year in late summer.

Ms Donson said there was a big variety of events for this festival, with something to please almost anyone - from dance workshops to technology workshops, film nights to author talks, craft groups to quiz nights.

"One of our highlights this year is a talk by Katherine Dewar, who has just released her first novel, Ruby and the Blue Sky. Katherine will be having a discussion with Whanganui writer Nicola Patrick," Ms Donson said.

"She'll be talking about what it's like to publish a book and put yourself out there - she's a very interesting woman."

Ms Donson said one of the Women's Network's volunteers will be offering workshops on how to use mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

On August 19 a fundraising quiz night for the Women's Network will be held. Titled the Wondrous Quiz, it will include teams of six members competiting for prizes, as well as raffles and art auctions.

Last year, many of the Wonderfest activities were centred around Space Gallery. Ms Donson said Space would be stepping back from its prominent role, but would still offer its popular night market on August 20.

For more information about Winter Wonderfest, call into the Women's Network Whanganui in the Ladies Rest building on St Hill St.