The Ultimate Summer Festival Guide - Australian Traveller

Summer in Australia has arrived, you know what that means – festival season is here!

Aussies love a summer festival; there is just something so iconically Australian about sweltering in the Aussie heat for a good time. As a result, the country’s calendar is absolutely packed full of fun come the warmer weather. This is the ultimate guide to Australia’s hottest (literally) festivals.

Lights of Lobethal

Adelaide, SA: until 22 December

Christmas lights around a house and a garden outside. — Come see the lights this Christmas in Lobethal. (Image: Dylan Sanders)

A beacon of light to the local community and South Australians of all ages, the Lights of Lobethal is a volunteer-run festival and one of the reasons it made our top festive towns list. Throughout its 60-year history, no other calendar event has built more morale, creating happy memories and spreading joy, hope and resilience throughout the community.

Experience the magic of Christmas and ignite your sense of nostalgia by immersing yourself in impressive experiences, from fantastical light installations to traditional festive events. Think carols, nativity plays, markets and the annual Lobethal pageant.

Liquid Light

Darwin, NT: until 25 December

Throughout the month of December, Darwinites meandering along the city’s well-known waterfront will spy a stunning showcase of sound, water and light. The free art installation captives with mesmerising laser projections, water fountains, animations and soundtracks.

Perfectly timed with the festive season, Liquid Light – A Christmas Wonderland is a great night out for the whole family. After admiring the installation, which starts at 7.30pm each evening, hit up one of Darwin’s many divine restaurants for a bite to eat.

Radiance

Rockhampton, Qld: until 24 December

Rockhampton comes alive during December with Radiance in the city’s heritage-listed Botanic Gardens. Wander through 150-year-old trees to discover a variety of stunning light installations, laser effects, enchanting sculptures and interactive projections.

There will also be Christmas-themed art displays, soundscapes and special effects to get you excited for the festive season. For those with sensory needs, an early low-sensory session is available, too.

Woodford Folk Festival

Moreton Bay, Qld: 27 December – 1 January

Welcome 2025 by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival , a diverse congregation of the creative community that has transformed into a village of music, culture, and colour since its inception in 1887.

The vibrant event is held on the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. Headlined by local, national and international acts, festival-goers are invited to create, connect, laugh, listen and dance into 2025.

Lost Paradise

Glenworth Valley, NSW: 28 December – 1 January 2024

Lost Paradise returns with an all-star lineup this December, making it one of the best ways you can celebrate New Years Eve this year. Taking over Glenworth Valley in NSW, the mammoth line-up of international superstars and fierce local talent includes Fisher, Tinashe, Royel Otis, Flight Facilities, AJ Tracey, and loads more.

But Lost Paradise offers so much more than its musical line-up. Need a break from the music or keen to try something new? Head to Shambhala Fields for yoga, talks, workshops, healing arts and Indigenous experiences. Or wander a diverse range of markets in the Lost Village. Also, just to add the icing on top, glamping tents are available to book.

Taste of Summer

Hobart, Tas: 28 December – 4 January

Taste of Summer is a week-long festival that celebrates the incredible fresh produce and farm-to-plate practices that Tasmania is known for. This year, over 75 local producers will gather in Hobart to showcase the state’s finest – and of course, there will be fireworks!

Come New Year’s Eve, musical acts such as Hoodoo Gurus, VIXXIN and Hugo Bladel will ring in 2025 with epic live performances on Hobart’s Waterfront. And what’s even better, arrive between 6pm and 7pm and enjoy a complimentary glass of Clover Hill sparkling.

Beyond the Valley

Barunah Plains, Vic: 28 December – 1 January

Beyond The Valley is back for its ninth year and promising a line-up like never before. Witness Fisher, Ice Spice, Sugababes, Chase & Status, Natasha Bedingfield and many more light up the stage and bring in the New Year.

Boogie under the Dance Dome. Join the conversation at the Podcast Stage. Explore Main Street’s food and market stalls. Take a yoga or meditation break at The Sanctuary. Cool off at the Beach Club. Whatever you do, you’ll welcome 2025 feeling oh so happy at Beyond the Valley.

NYE on the Hill

Gippsland, Vic: 30 December– 1 January

Head to The Farm in Victoria’s Gippsland region this December and you’ll find NYE on the Hill . Think good live music, camping with mates, rolling green hills, morning yoga, art installations and curated food trucks.

Now in its 11th year, this three-day rural festival has sold out every single year – and it’s not hard to see why. Between its stellar line-up (Mallrat, Hockey Dad, Rum Jungle and more) and stunning setting, NYE on the Hill has garnered a loyal community. And once you join it, you’ll be keen to come back year after year.

Snack Festival

Perth, WA: 31 December

One of Western Australia’s biggest festivals is back this year, offering the perfect NYE plans for you and your mates. Snack Festival , held at the Claremont Showground in Perth, will have you dancing well into the night.

Across nine epic stages, over 40 DJs will play their best sets to raving crowds. Whether you opt for the silent disco, bush doof paint party or karaoke village, you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

Wildlands Festival

Brisbane, Qld: 31 December
Perth, WA: 4 January 2024
Adelaide, SA: 5 January 2024

Wildlands Festival will return over this New Year’s Eve period , hitting Brisbane before the year rounds out, then hitting Perth and Adelaide in January. With Luude, The Jungle Giants, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, Boo Seeka and more taking to the stage, Wildlands is going to be off the charts.

Featuring world-class production, iconic stage design, decor and arts, Wildlands offers attendees a day of immersive music and arts escapism unlike any other. There will also be food trucks and fully stocked bars to keep you fuelled into 2025.

Field Day

Sydney, NSW: 1 January 2024

Field Day is the best way to do New Year’s Day and the antidote to the whole panoply of NYE drawbacks. Picture it: you’re out in the summer sun, your friends are by your side and the best music you’ll hear all year is blasting all around you.

Field Day specialises in party music that’s a high-quality mix of house, hip-hop, indie and electronica. With Chase & Status, RL Grime, Meduza and Sam Alfred all making an appearance, there’s no better way to kick off 2025.

Summernats

Canberra, ACT: 2–5 January

The annual Summernats Car Festival is Australia’s biggest horsepower party. In 2025, Exhibition Park in Canberra is the place to be among the action.

Check out lawn mower racing, burnout shows, mullet competitions and live performances by Aussie icons Jet, Eskimo Joe, Thirsty Merc and many more. Created by renowned revhead Chic Henry in 1988, the Summernats has become an Aussie favourite.

Sydney Festival

Sydney, NSW: 4–26 January

Sydney Festival is hitting its stride this year as it swings the spotlight across the city for its annual celebration of culture and creativity. The 24-day event will splash colour across the city in immersive live performances of theatre, music, dance and art.

The festival has won acclaim since it first began in 1977 for its inclusive program of free and ticketed events that build on the feelings of community that bind the city together.

Australian Open

Melbourne, Vic: 6–11 January

One of the biggest events on Melbourne’s sporting calendar, the Australian Open sees the world’s best tennis players take to the court across 20 heated days.

Internationally recognised players, such as Novak Djokovic and Australia’s own Alicia Molik, will battle it out across a range of divisions at Melbourne Park. Don’t miss the three-day Finals Festival at John Cain Arena, featuring DMA’s, The Jungle Giants and more.

Elvis Festival

Parkes, NSW: 8–12 January

Elvis impersonators and crowds gather at the annua Street Parade in Parkes. — Elvis impersonators and crowds gather at the annual Street Parade in Parkes.

Celebrate Elvis Presley’s birthday the right way this year at the 2024 Parkes Elvis Festival . If you sport a leather jacket and slick your hair back, you’ll fit right in. The festival invites attendees to dress up accordingly and pay homage to the life and music of the king of rock ‘n’ roll.

This year, the festival’s program is jam-packed with live music performances, line dancing lessons, dragon boating, sky-diving (yes, you read that right!) and more. Tickets are on sale now.

Cygnet Folk Festival

Cygnet, Tas: 10–12 January

Serving as one of Australia’s most iconic folk music festivals, the Cygnet Folk Festival is highly regarded by musicians and festival-goers alike. It showcases eclectic music genres from both local and international talent, along with dancing, poetry and masterclasses.

Browse and indulge in local food, wine, art and crafts, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Make a weekend of it by camping out at an additional cost.

Tamworth Country Music Festival

Tamworth, NSW: 17–26 January

Known as one of Australia’s biggest music festivals, the Tamworth Country Music Festival is home to over 2500 free and ticketed gigs across 120 venues. The festival doesn’t have gates, allowing country music lovers free access to live performances, country markets and the annual Golden Guitar Awards.

Buskers, stalls, kids’ activities and street performers are set to bring the streets of Tamworth to life. Pre-purchase tickets are now available for paid events.

Rosé & Dumplings Festival

Adelaide Hills, SA: 25–26 January

Howard Vineyard in South Australia — The kitchen at Howard’s Vineyard has nailed its dumplings. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

The 2025 Rosé & Dumpling Festival hosted by Howard Vineyard is back again, celebrating all things rosé. Enjoy live music paired with delicious food and divine wine, set against the stunning backdrop of Adelaide Hills.

Get your friends together for all-day rosé paired with a delicious selection of hand-rolled dumplings, along with other foodie favourites. Tickets are on sale now, priced between $15 and $30 per person.

Festivale

Launceston, Tas: 31 January– 2 February

Known as one of Tassie’s premium summer events, Festivale is a three-day community commemoration of Launceston’s incredible foodie scene, paired with epic local entertainment in City Park.

Guests are immersed in a variety of activities, from beverage masterclasses and chef demonstrations to live music and countless stalls. Under historic elm trees decorated with hanging lights, family and friends can relax in the open space and enjoy the festivities.

Perth Festival

Perth, WA: 7 February – 2 March

Perth Festival in the WA capital is jam-packed with plenty for all, with events ranging from performance and music to film, literature and art. With both free and ticketed events, visitors can pull their own unique itinerary together based on not only their interests but their budgets too.

In 2025, the festival will deck out its new home for the first time at the East Perth Power Station. The 8.5-hectare venue on the banks of the Swan River will add an exciting new atmosphere after being revitalised for the event.

Sail GP

Sydney, NSW: 8–9 February

SailGP , one of the world’s biggest sailing events, is heading back to Sydney in February. Get up close and personal to the 50-foot catamarans racing at speeds of 90 kilometres an hour across Sydney Harbour.

Teams from all over the world will be competing for precious points, including Australia, who are currently sitting in fifth place. Spectators can board an official spectator boat or watch from the shore where there will be live commentary, a bar, a fan shop and post-race entertainment.

Laneway Festival

Brisbane, Qld: 8 February
Sydney, NSW: 9 February
Melbourne, Vic: 14 February
Adelaide, SA: 15 February
Perth, WA: 16 February

Laneway Festival is back for its 20th birthday in 2025! The much-loved festival will be hopping from state to state (except Tassie, the NT and ACT – sorry guys!), bringing both famed and emerging artists to your ears.

Spend the day gallivanting in the sun with your besties to a blockbuster line-up featuring Charlie XCX, Clairo, Remi Wolf, Skeggs and so many more incredible artists. Tickets are on sale now and are sure to sell out fast!

Riverboats Music Festival

Echuca, Vic: 14–16 February

PS Pevensey, Echuca Paddlesteamers, things to do along the Murray River — Jump on a river cruise with the PS Pevensey.

On the banks of the ancient Murray River on Yorta Yorta Country, Riverboats Music Festival entertains all weekend long. The stellar line-up is sure to please, with big names like Bic Runga, The Cruel Sea, Dan Sultan, Emily Wurramara and more taking to the stage.

The festival’s iconic paddle steamer sideshows will also return this year. In partnership with the iconic Echuca Paddlesteamers, attendees can experience a series of intimate sideshows aboard the historic PS Pevensey.

Mardi Gras

Sydney, NSW: 14 February – 2 March

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is back for another amazing two-week-long celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community. The festival theme for 2025 is Free to Be, which is all about celebrating the community’s fight for equality and individuality, as well as embracing your true self.

The program this year is looking bright, with everything from parades and pool parties to live music performances, theatre, drag shows, comedy acts and more. There truly isn’t an event you want to miss. Tickets are on sale now!

Adelaide Fringe

Adelaide, SA: 21 February – 23 March

This South Aussie spectacular remains one of the defining arts events on the Australian cultural calendar. Every summer, Adelaide Fringe hosts more than 6000 alt-independent acts that transform the state’s laneways, theatres, galleries and gardens into a circus of fun.

This year’s non-curated pay-to-play festival will include acts as diverse as cabaret and circus, magic and music, talks and physical theatre. Guests can expect to see big names like actress Joann Condon (Little Britain), singer Rohan Watts, comedian James Barr, street artist Jimmy C and more.

Royal Canberra Show

Canberra, ACT: 23–25 February

The Royal Canberra Show is the city’s largest all-ages event, event, hosted annually by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society. While agriculture has remained at its core, the show has expanded to include rides, entertainment, educational features, exhibitions and plenty of food.

There’ll be something for the whole family at the Canberra Show. From the farmyard nursery, dog show and rides to the multitude of eateries offering up delicious local fare, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Noosa Summer Swim Festival

Noosa, Qld: 22–23 February

Grab your togs and get ready for a weekend of sunshine and swimming with the Noosa Summer Swim Festival. Now one of Australia’s most popular summer swimming events, the open-water adventure takes participants along Main Beach in Noosa and through the stunning national park.

Whether you’re an avid aquanaut or simply looking for a break from the heat, there’s room for everyone to participate. Be sure to prepare for the big swim with the new dryland warm-up sessions run by Swimnastics.

Feastival

Falls Creek, Vic: 28 February – 2 March

In the alpine resort town of Falls Creek, you’re invited to Feastival , a three-day celebration of the region’s best food, wine, music and art. This year’s festival activities include a paint and sip brunch, degustation lunch and live comedy.

There will also be live performances from incredible Aussie talents, with the line-up yet to be announced. If you’re visiting the alpine area of Victoria for the event, the cosy town of Bright is only an hour from Falls Creek and is the perfect place to get a real taste of the region.

Enlighten Festival

Canberra, ACT: 28 February – 10 March

Watch Canberra light up with Enlighten Festival , a 17-day event taking over the capital this March. A diverse and exciting program will consume the city under a cloak of culture and creativity. From after-dark activities to film and music events, prepare to be wowed.

Highlights of the festival include Enlighten After Dark, City Illuminations, Symphony in the Park and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Enlighten Festival is mostly made up of free events, however, tickets can be purchased now for the few that require them.

Nannup Music Festival

Nannup, WA: 28 February – 3 March

In the centre of WA’s stunning southwest on the banks of the Blackwood River is Nannup, a small timber town known for its local music festival . Held annually, the streets of Nannup come alive with stalls, performances and activities, spearheaded by a community-minded spirit.

Guests can expect an eclectic mix of incredible acts over free and ticketed venues, plus street performances, markets, yoga, workshops and activities for kids.

Yours and Owls

Wollongong, NSW: 1–2 March

Yours & Owls Festival — This year’s festival will be held at the University of Wollongong. (Image: Ian Laidlaw)

Who’s ready for another round of Yours and Owls ? We certainly are. This year’s set list, which features local and international acts, is sure to pop off, with Jungle Giants, Denzel Curry, The Kooks, Fontaines D.C. and more all ready to party with you.

Held at South Beach along the Wollongong Foreshore, it’s the perfect spot to party before cooling off at one of Wollongong’s best beaches. If you’re travelling into town for the festival, be sure to book a campsite in advance.

WOMADelaide

Adelaide, SA: 7–10 March

Get excited – the iconic WOMADelaide , which stands for World Of Music, Arts and Dance, is returning to Adelaide this March. The open-air festival is one of the most celebrated annual festivals in the City of Churches, spanning four thrilling days.

This year’s program offers performances from local and international artists, plus street theatre, art, stalls and installations. There will also be plenty of food and beverage offerings for guests to enjoy.

fabALICE Festival

Alice Springs, NT: 27–30 March

Continue the Mardi Gras party in March at fabALICE , a festival of drag and cabaret that celebrates the inclusivity and diversity of Mparntwe/Alice Springs. There is so much to look forward to this year, with the fabALICE program simply bursting at the seams.

From lip sync battles and cabaret to drag queen bingo and fashion shows, your itinerary is set to be jam-packed. Join the community of Alice Springs as it sparkles this March to celebrate pride, love and diversity.

Time your visit to Margaret River just right, and you can spend the ultimate weekend wining, dining and exploring the region with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.

Wine, world-class produce, surf, sun and beaches: it’s an alluring combination. And the reason so many pin the Margaret River region high on their travel hit-lists. There’s drawcard after drawcard to the southwestern corner of Western Australia, and the Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover food and wine festival showcases the best of it over the course of one weekend in November. It’s never been easier to sip, see and savour the Margaret River region.

In partnership with Pair’d Margaret River Region, Range Rover invites you on a seven-day itinerary of refined adventure, where luxury and exploration go hand in hand. It’s the perfect WA road trip, and there’s no better way to do it than in a Range Rover.

Day 1

the pool at Pullman Bunker Bay — Check into Pullman Bunker Bay.

There’s no more popular West Australian road trip route than that between Perth and the Margaret River Region. It’s an easily digestible, three-hour drive, with worthy pit stops along the way.

Make the first of them one hour and 15 minutes in, at Lake Clifton. Here, find a 2000-year-old living thrombolite reef. Drive for a further 40 minutes and chance meeting some of Bunbury’s dolphin population at Koombana Bay.

Pullman Bunker Bay is the final stop, just over three hours south of Perth. This beachfront, five-star resort is the ultimate base for exploring the Margaret River Wine region.

Day 2

After a leisurely morning breakfast with an ocean view, start your Range Rover and head towards the Dunsborough town centre. Browsing the decidedly coastal-themed goods of the town’s many independent boutiques is a great way to while away the hours, breaking up the sartorial with an artisan gelato snack stop, or some good old-fashioned Australian bakery fare.

Leave room; you’ll need it for the Good Natured Gathering dinner at Wayfinder. Indulge in a four-course feast by chef Felipe Montiel, which uses produce from the winery’s market garden to enhance a selection of sustainably sourced seafood and meat. But food is just the support act. It’s organic wine that’s the star of the show, generously poured and expertly paired to each dish.

Day 3

Settle in for cabernet at Cape Mentelle Winery.

With a grand total of 20 wines from vintage 2022 to try, it’s a good thing Cape Mentelle’s International Cabernet Tasting kicks off early. Make your way to the estate for a 10:00 AM start, where a global selection of wines will be poured blind, before a long lunch by Tiller Dining is served.

Given that the Margaret River is responsible for more than 20 per cent of Australia’s fine wine production, it’s only right to delve into it while in the area.

Continue exploring the region via taste and terroir aboard Alison Maree, a whale-watching catamaran, as you cruise Geographe Bay . Admire the rolling green hills and crisp white beaches of Quindalup in sunset’s golden light, all the while sipping through the Clairault Streicker catalogue and dining on canapes.

For a more substantial dinner, venture into Busselton for a seven-course British x Australian mash-up , courtesy of Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion) and Oliver Kent (Updown Farmhouse, UK). They’ll be putting their rustic yet refined spin on the likes of local marron, wagyu and abalone – championing the simple beauty of the world-class ingredients.

Day 4

Wrap your fingers around a wine glass and wiggle your toes into the sand at Pair’d Beach Club x Range Rover on Meelup Beach. Sit down to an intimate wine session with sommelier Cyndal Petty – or a four-course feast by Aaron Carr of Yarri – and revel in the open-air beach club, bar and restaurant’s laidback coastal vibe. It’s a whole new way to experience one of the region’s most renowned beaches.

Follow up a day in the sun with a casual Italian party at Mr Barvel Wines . Purchase wines –including the elusive, sold-out Nebbia – by the glass and enjoy canapes with the towering Karri forest as a backdrop.

If you’d prefer to keep it local, head to Skigh Wines for the New Wave Gathering , where the region’s independent wine makers and their boundary-pushing wines will be on show. Street-style eats, a DJ and complimentary wine masterclasses complete the experience.

Day 5

pair'd Grand Tasting — Taste your way through Howard Park Wines. (Image: C J Maddock)

Spend the morning at your leisure, driving the winding roads through the Boranup Karri forest in your Range Rover. Soak in the views at Contos Beach, and call into the small cheese, chocolate and preserve producers along the way.

Make your next stop Howard Park Wines for The Grand Tasting presented by Singapore Airlines . Numerous wine labels will be pouring their catalogues over four hours, accompanied by food from chefs Matt Moran and Silvia Colloca, with live opera providing the soundtrack.

Cap off a big weekend with one last hurrah at Busselton Pavilion. Six ‘local legends’ – chefs Brendan Pratt (Busselton Pavilion), Mal Chow (Chow’s Table), Aaron Carr (Yarri), Ben Jacob (Lagoon Yallingup), Corey Rozario (Dahl Daddies) and Laura Koentjoro (Banksia Tavern) – will be preparing a dish each. Dance the night away as vinyl spins and the sun sets on another day.

Day 6

Ngilgi Cave western australia — Head underground. (Image: Tourism WA)

After a busy few days of wining and dining, it’s wise to observe a rest day. There’s no easier task than unwinding in the Margaret River Region, also famous for its high concentration of world-class beaches.

Relax on the grassy knoll as you watch the region’s most experienced surfers braving the World Surf League break at Surfer’s Point, or don your own wetsuit and try out one of Gracetown’s more beginner-friendly waves. Swimmers will find their Eden at Meelup Beach, Eagle Bay, or Point Piquet, where the sand is brilliantly white and the water as still as a backyard swimming pool.

Not into sun, sand, and surf? Head underground at Mammoth Cave, just one of the region’s many stalactite-filled caves.

Day 7

Burnt Ends event at Pair'd — Farewell the Margaret River.

Pack up your Range Rover with new favourite wines and newfound memories, ready for the three-hour journey back to Perth.

Prebook your discovery journey through the south-west corner of Western Australia with Pair’d Margaret River Region x Range Rover.