The trees of Warwick will be rugging up as Jumpers and Jazz in July makes its giant return

Warwick’s creative yarntopians have been knitting up a storm in the lead-up to the beloved winter festival, with two years of work and an exciting new theme set to bedazzle the Rose City in July.

The 2021 Jumpers and Jazz in July festival is sure to bring some vibrant jumper artwork such as this from the 2019 exhibition. Picture: file

The streets of Warwick will soon be transformed into a vibrant patchwork of art as the beloved Jumpers and Jazz in July festival makes its enormous post-COVID comeback.

More than 100 trees across the Rose City will be decked out in handcrafted “jumpers” and crocheted decorations, fitting the 2021 event’s theme of ‘crackers’.

Warwick Art Gallery director Karina Devine said last year’s COVID cancellation had given artists an additional full year to let their creative juices flow.

“We’ve been really happy we’ve had an extra year to work on things, I’m expecting to see some really amazing tree jumpers,” Ms Devine said.

The festival started 17 years ago when the art gallery and local businesses were searching for ways to add a bold sparkle to Warwick’s cold winter streets.

Hand-knit or crocheted ‘tree jumpers’ have since been worn by the trees lining Palmerin Street in a exuberant crowd-drawing display, with the event bringing thousands of tourists to the Southern Downs each year.

Ms Devine said the idea was a quirky one when it was pitched back in 2004, but the community wholeheartedly embraced the festival as it has continued to grow each year.

Those decorating the trees of Warwick, affectionately known as ‘yarnbombers’, will try and out-stitch the competition in four categories, each worth $500.

While Ms Devine said it was great to see many entrants embracing recycling and reclaimed material, there was a focus on keeping the tradition of wool work alive.

After taking in the knitted creations, guests will be able to take in a full program of events including the popular Killarney Bonfire Night, the Suitcase Rummage and Potters Winter Craft Market.

The Jumpin’ Jazz Laneway Party on Friday, July 16 will launch the festival in the ambience of Town Hall, while a stop by the 300-strong vintage car line-up on Saturday, July 17 could be more suited to revheads’ tastes.

Ms Devine said the bustling program could make choosing any one activity tricky, but said a visit to the art gallery was a must.

“In our front room, Yarntopians have been working for two years to knit a retro-style kitchen,” she said.

With huge crowd numbers tipped despite the challenges of COVID, Ms Devine said the festival would certainly lift community spirits this winter.

“Until you see it, you don’t really understand just what it’s like.”

Jumpers and Jazz in July will run from Thursday, July 15 to Sunday, July 25. Click here for more information or to book tickets.