Heritage Hands Festival
Sandgate
Updated: Nov 03, 2026
The inaugural Heritage Hands Festival celebrates specialist makers, traditional trades and the knowledge worth carrying forward this November in Sandgate!
Across Friday and Saturday on the 6-7 November, meet extraordinary Artisan Makers, watch remarkable skills in action, take part in hands-on workshops, explore the Heritage Makers Market and join conversations about the knowledge and practices to carry forward at the Sandgate Town Hall.
The festival brings together hands-on experiences, demonstrations, film and conversations in a welcoming community setting, with free activities alongside selected ticketed events.
Visitors will encounter a diverse collection of craftspeople working across traditional trades, specialist handcrafts and contemporary applications of heritage techniques.
Heritage Hands Festival special guest makers and activities include: Michael Blazek - master neon glass bender, bringing more than three decades of specialist knowledge to the festival.
Alicia Mora-Hyde of Mora-Igra Umbrellas - continuing the tradition of handcrafted umbrellas using vintage machinery and techniques.
Brett Richardson - penny-farthing maker and restorer, sharing the engineering and craftsmanship behind historic bicycles.
Dr Renata Buziak - artist and researcher exploring cyanotype and biochrome photographic processes. Monique Ross - introducing visitors to basketry and fibre weaving through hands-on activities.
Suzie Rodgers - specialist maker of theatrical tiaras, headpieces and intricate costume embellishments.
The Heritage Hands Festival is the latest chapter in Heritage Hands, an independent cultural initiative founded by Brisbane-based documentary photographer and creative producer Melissa Hoedel. Heritage Hands Festival welcomes experienced makers, beginners and those simply wanting to enjoy the atmosphere.
Festival activities start from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM on Friday 6, and 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturday 7 November.
Heritage Hands Festival is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com.
