A taste of summer: why December is a special time to visit the Riverina

The start of summer in the food bowl of Australia

As Summer rolls in, the Riverina moves into its most abundant season. Orchards are heavy with developing citrus and other fruit, early grape harvests begin, and farmers prepare for end-of-year markets and milestones. The landscape glows with activity and warmth — both literal and figurative.

Fresh produce at its peak

If you’re passionate about food, there’s no better time to visit. From roadside stalls to packing sheds and farm gates, December brings cherries, early grapes, canola, wheat, barley and the first of the tomatoes. Some of our group tours even allow for “pick your own” opportunities, making it a hands-on celebration of summer’s bounty.

Behind-the-scenes of harvest season

Many of our hosts are in full swing with harvesting and processing. That means guests can witness real-time activity, whether it’s juicing oranges, observing “broad acre” harvesting, or monitoring grain transport. These aren’t staged experiences. They’re everyday realities of life in rural Australia.

A time for celebration and connection

The end of the year often brings a lighter mood. Locals are proud to share what they’ve grown, and many tour stops include seasonal tastings, small community events, or even live music. Whether you’re joining from overseas or interstate, December is a chance to connect with the land, with food, and with one another.

Planning your visit

December tours can be customised around seasonal highlights and group preferences. Whether you’re planning a learning-focused itinerary or simply want to enjoy a relaxing escape in regional NSW, we’d be glad to help. Just bear in mind: the heat builds, so hats, hydration and early starts are your friend.