15 stunning spring festivals around Australia

Your petal-packed guide to spring’s best festivals awaits.

Shake off the winter chill, spring is here! When the air hums with warmth, the days stretch a little longer and landscapes burst into colour as blossoms unfurl across the country. It’s a season made for sun-dappled mornings and golden afternoons, when Australia’s wild beauty wakes up in spectacular style.

From fields of flowers and alfresco feasts to music-filled markets and seaside celebrations, here’s where to soak up the magic at spring festivals nationwide.

1. CHArts Festival

Stanley, Tas: 31 August – 5 October

Stanley, Tasmania — Welcome spring with a refreshing dip at Godfrey’s Beach. (Image: Poon Wai Nang)

Held in the village of Stanley in Tassie’s rugged north-west, the annual CHArts Festival is a month-long celebration of the region’s culture, heritage and arts scene. It’s all about showcasing local creatives while offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy exhibitions, mostly displayed by local businesses.

A highlight of the program each year is the Spring Swim – because what better way to farewell winter than a plunge in the Bass Strait? Join the community as they gather to do just that at Godfrey’s Beach, whether you dare to take a dip or just want to watch from the shore.

2. Bloom & Graze

Coldstream, Vic: 6–7 & 13–14 September

CherryHill Orchards in the Yarra Valley, Victoria — You can also pick your own cherries at the Yarra Valley orchard.

In Victoria’s bucolic Yarra Valley, family-run CherryHill Orchards will officially open its gates ahead of harvest season with the inaugural Bloom & Graze festival. Running for the first two weekends of spring, the colourful celebration is all about waving off winter and welcoming the warmth.

A range of market stalls run by local businesses will take over the orchard as it begins to bloom, touting everything from wine and whiskey to cheese and crafts. Each vendor will run its own insightful workshop or demonstration, too. There will also be live music, kids’ entertainment, food trucks and a cherry-inspired farmgate store.

3. Desert Mob

Alice Springs, NT: 11 September – 26 October

Desert Mob in Alice Springs/Mparntwe — See the colours of spring from a new perspective at Desert Mob.

It’s not about flowers at Desert Mob , it’s about something way cooler. Head out to Alice Springs/Mparntwe this September to witness the convergence of more than 30 Art Centres from across Western Australia, the Northern Territory and South Australia.

The result is an unforgettable collection of events – an exhibition, artist talks, after-dark events and a huge artwork marketplace, all celebrating First Nations artists. Guests can participate in an incredible program that also includes workshops, studio tours, live performances and more.

4. Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Toowoomba, Qld: 12 September – 6 October

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers in Toowoomba, Queensland — Admire incredible gardenscapes at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

Toowoomba in Queensland is known for two things: as the home of the Lamington, and the host of the Carnival of Flowers . Held every year at the beginning of spring, this vibrant event brings colour back to Toowoomba in spades, with more than 40 million flowers on display.

Bringing together the region’s best food, wine, flora and entertainment across the city’s public parks and spaces, it showcases all that Toowoomba and its surrounds have to offer. Along with beautiful blooms, guests can enjoy tasting tours, festive feasts, themed parades (there’s even one dedicated to dogs), lawn parties and more.

5. Tulip Time

Bowral, NSW: 12 September – 4 October

Tulip Time Flower Festival in Bowral, NSW — Bowral bursts to life with the colourful Tulip Time festival. (Image: Destination NSW)

Step into a floral wonderland at Bowral’s Corbett Gardens for the Tulip Time Flower Festival this September. Hand-planted tulips and vibrant annuals bursting in every shade creates one of NSW’s most celebrated spring displays – perfect for flower lovers and photographers.

Beyond the blooms, the festival buzzes with live music, boutique markets and food trucks. Stroll the gardens, wander locally run stalls or simply soak up the sun with friends. It’s a joyful celebration of colour, community and all things Southern Highlands.

6. Tesselaar Tulip Festival

Silvan, Vic: 13 September – 12 October

Tesselaar Tulip Festival in Silvan, Victoria — Over a million spring bulbs will flower in Silvan.

The town of Silvan in Victoria’s Yarra Ranges loves its tulips so much, it’s dedicated a whole month to them. Between September and October, over a million bulbs will flower at the Tesselaar Tulip Festival , which celebrates 70 years in 2025.

Grab your nearest and dearest to bask in the spring sunshine with a picnic, listen to live jazz performances and ride the festival tractor, then check out what else the huge program has to offer. There are also themed weekends – a great opportunity to dress up and snap a few colourful photos for your Insta feed.

7. Floriade

Canberra, ACT: 13 September – 12 October

Floriade in Canberra — Floriade is the brainchild of Christiaan Slotemaker de Bruine.

Arguably the biggest celebration of spring around the country, any mention of flower festivals would be incomplete without Floriade . Held for a full month in the nation’s capital, this epic event has been blooming every spring since 1988.

Floriade is the perfect day out for the whole family. Visitors can look forward to live entertainment, music, food and wine, horticultural workshops, market stalls, art displays and more. This year’s theme is ‘Science and Nature’, so get ready to put your thinking cap on!

8. Kakadu Bird Week

Kakadu, NT: 24–28 September

Azure Kingfisher in Kakadu National Park — Spot beautiful birds like the azure kingfisher in Kakadu National Park.

After a long winter cosied away, the hundreds of bird species that call Kakadu National Park home emerge for the spring season. Instead of spotting buds and blooms, you’ll be on the lookout for azure kingfishers, rainbow bee-eaters, partridge pigeons, magpie geese and more.

BYO binoculars to witness how the season comes to life in a different way during Kakadu Bird Week , accompanied by beautiful birdsong, gushing waterfalls, wetland cruises and bush tucker cook-ups. It’s a whole new way to experience spring.

9. Riverland Rose & Garden Festival

Renmark, SA: 10–19 October

Roses in Renmark, South Australia — Renmark and the Riverland region are renowned for its roses. (Image: Coast to Outback)

The Riverland Rose and Garden Festival sees this stunning South Australian region shine in a kaleidoscope of colour. Held over 10 days each October, the festival includes open gardens, markets, floral displays, a four-course gala dinner and the annual Waikerie Flower Show.

While the 2025 program is yet to be announced, the event is known to host talks by horticulturalist superstars from TV programmes like Gardening Australia and Better Homes & Gardens. Local green thumbs would be silly to miss it!

10. Tulip Festival

Wynyard, Tas: 11 October

Table Cape Tulip Farm in Wynyard, Tasmania — Be sure to visit the nearby Table Cape Tulip Farm. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The small town of Wynyard explodes with beauty in October for its annual Tulip Festival , which occurs just as the region’s most coveted flower blossoms. Guests will be treated to plenty of festive fun, from rides and live music to roving entertainment and markets.

Held at Gutteridge Gardens, the event promises a big display of blooms, so be sure to bring your camera! If you have a bit of extra time, be sure to pop over to Table Cape Tulip Farm , too. Just a 10-minute drive away, it’s home to rows of immaculate tulips backdropped by the Bass Strait.

11. Sculpture by the Sea

Bondi, NSW: 17 October – 3 November

Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi, NSW — Admire stunning sculptures backdropped by the ocean. (Image: Destination NSW)

There may not be a festival of flowers, but the iconic Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi is a stalwart on Australia’s springtime calendar. It’s the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, all backdropped by one of the best beaches in Sydney.

Instead of admiring floral displays, you’ll be wowed by over 100 unique sculptures by artists from around the world. Not only will you witness the world’s largest free-to-the-public sculpture exhibition, you’ll also experience the Bondi to Tamarama walk, one of the city’s top coastal hikes.

12. Jacaranda Festival

Grafton, NSW: 24 October – 2 November

Jacaranda Festival in Grafton, NSW — Jacarandas have put the town of Grafton on the map. (Image: Destination NSW)

At its core, spring means flowers. And nowhere knows this better than Grafton in NSW’s Clarence Valley. Each year, the town is painted purple with countless jacaranda trees in full bloom, and the Jacaranda Festival is dedicated to honouring them.

Experience Grafton like never before as purple petals rain down across town. And this year, there’s plenty to see and do – from vintage car displays to market stalls touting purple ice-cream – it’s wholesome jacaranda-themed goodness at its best.

13. Spring in the Vines

South Tasmania: 31 October – 2 November

General getty image of wine being poured into glasses — Rosé and roses make for spring’s prettiest pairing. (Image: Liudmila Chernetska)

Presented by Wine South Tasmania, Spring in the Vines (unsurprisingly) spotlights a variety of vineyards from across the region as spring enters full bloom. From Hobart to the Derwent Valley and plenty of places in between, you’re promised the full experience of southern Tassie tipples.

Over 35 of the best wine producers from across southern Tasmania will be participating, opening their cellar doors to the public for tastings, workshops and more. Along with the opportunity to meet local growers and makers, you can also expect food, music and art.

14. Big Pineapple Festival

Sunshine Coast, Qld: 1 November

Big Pineapple Festival on the Sunshine Coast, Qld — The festival is held at one of Australia’s beloved Big Things.

While Australia’s fruit-picking calendar is arguably at its best during spring, this juicy pineapple is certainly not ripe for the picking. But although you can’t take a bite out of it, you can definitely party underneath it at the Big Pineapple Festival in November.

Presented by Triple J, it’s shaping up to be one of Australia’s most iconic music events, at one of our most iconic Big Things. Boogie to artists like Hilltop Hoods, Cat Empire, The Jungle Giants, Thelma Plum and more before camping under the stars with all your best mates.

15. Pair’d

Margaret River, WA: 20–23 November

Pair'd festival in Margaret River, WA — Take part in divine long lunches that highlight the region’s best produce.

Fusing the Margaret River’s extraordinary landscapes with the best of its diverse produce and wine is Pair’d , the latest foodie festival out of Western Australia. The plentiful program, which has been curated through the lens of a sommelier, is overflowing with epic events.

Think wine tastings masked as pottery workshops and Sunday sessions fuelled by good food, great wine and live music to match. Hosted by the region’s top vintners, producers, makers and shakers, Pair’d will make you fall in love with this charming WA region.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.