The Ultimate Summer Festival Guide - Australian Traveller

These are the summer festivals you’ll be talking about long after the season ends.

If summer in Australia had a soundtrack, it would be loud, live and playing somewhere outdoors. Every year across the country, festivals of every shape take over parks, beaches and city streets. Long days turn into golden sunsets, weekends fill fast and there’s always a setlist calling your name. Consider this your shortcut to the best of them, from open-air gigs to foodie fiestas and everything in between.

Dougstock

Willunga, SA: 5–6 December

Dreaming of a hilltop escape that feels like a local secret? Look no further than Dougstock . The two-day music and camping festival in Willunga brings original Aussie artists together in a lush, elevated setting. Plus, artisan markets, food trucks, yoga sessions and good vibes, of course. Whether you’re into psych-rock, jazz, soul or acoustics, the line-up is sure to excite.

Rolling Sets

Central Coast, NSW: 6 December

Nothing beats a good summer festival, and this one is up there with some of the best. Hosted on NSW’s picturesque Central Coast, Rolling Sets pairs live music with good vibes and great times (plus a delicious curation of food trucks, of course). This year’s musical line-up features acts like Hilltop Hoods, Spacey Jane, The Jungle Giants and Skeggs.

Spilt Milk

Canberra, ACT: 13 December

Spilt Milk is gearing up for another huge year, and Canberrans won’t be missing out. The festival rolls into its hometown at Exhibition Park in December, bringing the same electric energy that’s made it one of Australia’s most in-demand music events. Past performers include big names like Post Malone, Flume and Fisher, so expectations for the line-up are high.

Cherry Harmony Festival

Manjimup, WA: 13 December

Celebrate the local food and wine of Manjimup at the Cherry Harmony Festival this December. The flavour-fuelled day is full of exciting activities, including live music, street performances, exhibitions, workshops and the much-loved log-chopping competition.

Woodford Folk Festival

Moreton Bay, Qld: 27 December – 1 January

Woordford Folk Festival — Woodford Folk Festival is inspired by culture passed through generations. (Image: Lachlan Douglas)

Welcome the New Year by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival . Built by a diverse congregation of the creative community, the festival has transformed into a village of music, culture and colour since its inception in 1887. The vibrant event is held in the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane.

Taste of Summer

Hobart, Tas: 27 December – 3 January

Hobart’s waterfront explodes with flavour and festivity over the New Year period, as Taste of Summer transforms Princes Wharf into a week-long celebration of Tasmania’s finest produce. Over 80 locally led artisan stalls will be dishing up seasonal fare, fresh seafood, craft beer and premium wines across the week, paired perfectly with a line-up of live music.

Snack Festival

Perth, WA: 31 December

More NYE wonderland than music festival, Snack takes over Perth with three main stages hosting epic music acts. Each stage has its own offshoot: The Pyramid Stage has a silent disco dancefloor, Sin City, a kissing booth, and the Duckzilla Stage, a VIP deck. The festival also features thrilling rides, food trucks, a wedding chapel and a tattoo parlour.

Field Day

Sydney, NSW: 1 January

Field Day is the best way to welcome 2026 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. Field Day specialises in party music, with global artists delivering a mix of house, hip-hop, indie and electronica.

Summernats

Canberra, ACT: 8–11 January

Revheads, get ready – the annual Summernats Car Festival is returning to Canberra this January. Considered Australia’s biggest horsepower party, the four-day festival takes over Exhibition Park in the heart of the country’s capital with lawn-mower racing, burnout shows, mullet competitions, live performances by Aussie icons and more.

Sydney Festival

Sydney, NSW: 8–25 January

The NSW capital comes alive for the Sydney Festival , celebrating culture, creativity and the questioning mind since 1977. Watch impactful shows at the Roslyn Packer Theatre. Catch comedy at Carriageworks. Enjoy live music at the Opera House. Admire art exhibitions at the National Art School. Whatever you choose, you’ll leave feeling creatively recharged.

Elvis Festival

Parkes, NSW: 7–11 January

You may do a double-take when visiting the regional NSW town of Parkes, as thousands of Elvis lookalikes fill the streets each January. If you chuck on a leather jacket, slick your hair back and grab those blue suede shoes, you’ll fit right in. Live performances, art exhibitions, dance workshops, street parades, and more will have you All Shook Up in no time.

Cygnet Folk Festival

Cygnet, Tas: 9–11 January

Serving as one of Tassie’s most iconic calendar events, the Cygnet Folk Festival is a community-driven affair showcasing eclectic music genres, as well as other melodic art forms like dancing and poetry. Alongside attending an assortment of live performances, guests can indulge in local food and wine, attend workshops and browse local markets.

Forage & Feast

Central Highlands, Vic: 12 January – 15 February

Brought to life by the Central Highlands Growers and Producers Hub, Forage & Feast is a summer-centric tour of local flavours by the region’s artisan producers, tracing towns like Ballarat, Bendigo, Trentham and Daylesford. This year’s jam-packed program brims with everything from local markets and beekeeping classes to dinner degustations and farm tours.

Australian Open

Melbourne, Vic: 12 January – 1 February

One of the biggest events on Australia’s sporting calendar, the Australian Open sees some of the world’s best tennis stars take to the court across 21 heated days. Internationally recognised players like Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will battle it out across a range of divisions at Melbourne Park.

Tamworth Country Music Festival

Tamworth, NSW: 16–25 January

Each January, the regional hub of Tamworth transforms for its iconic Country Music Festival . In 2026, more than 700 artists will perform across town, from live outdoor concerts and intimate indoor gigs to the Golden Guitar Awards. Guests can look forward to a star-studded line-up this year, including headliners Troy Cassar-Daley and Lee Kernaghan.

Bunbury Fringe

Bunbury, WA: 23–31 January

Bunbury festival — Bunbury features art, music and circus. (Image: Martin Frazer)

Launched in 2016, Bunbury Fringe has grown into one of Western Australia’s top arts and culture festivals. The sole purpose of the Fringe is to bring happiness to its guests and cause as much laughter as possible – the epitome of feel-good fun. This year also marks 10 years of Bunbury Fringe, so expect the biggest celebration yet!

Rosé & Dumplings Festival

Adelaide Hills, SA: 24–25 January

Rosé & Dumpling Festival at Howard Vineyard, Adelaide Hills, SA — Devour hand-rolled dumplings and all-day rosé at Howard Vineyard. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

Howard Vineyard’s Rosé & Dumpling Festival pairs two of the world’s most delicious delicacies, while also inviting guests to indulge in local cocktails and beer, plus other foodie favourites. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up with your friends for a day of free-flowing rosé, live music, hand-rolled dumplings and lawn lounging in the summer sun.

Festival of Us

Darwin, NT: 26 January

Run by the Australia Day Council of the Northern Territory, the Festival of Us is a celebration of the NT’s diversity, culture and history. Chaired by Larrakia man Dr Richard Fejo and made up of a multicultural board, the not-for-profit is all about inclusivity. Embrace the 2026 theme of Reflect. Respect. Celebrate with workshops, market stalls, live performances and more.

Party in the Paddock

Carrick, Tas: 5–8 February

Just outside of Launceston, the town of Carrick is a master of disguise. On the outside, it appears to be a humble historic village. But linger a little longer, and you’ll see it transform into one of Tassie’s biggest arts festivals. This year’s line-up is a crowd pleaser – think Ocean Alley, The Veronicas, Peking Duk, Ball Park Music and more.

Perth Festival

Perth, WA: 6 February – 1 March

The Perth Festival program has been designed from day one to please all – think dance, theatre, film, art, literature and more. But the music program remains a highlight, with names like Baker Boy, Annahstasia, King Stingray and Ngaiire on the setlist. Off-stage, over 100 other events will keep you entertained, from poetry readings to panel talks.

Riverboats Music Festival

Echuca-Moama, Vic: 13–15 February

At the convergence of two historic regional towns, the Riverboats Music Festival entertains all weekend long. The stellar line-up is always a crowd-pleaser, with big names like Baker Boy, Xavier Rudd, Daisy Kilbourne and The Living End taking to the stage. It’s intimate sideshows will also return onboard the PS Pevensey paddlesteamer for one-hour gigs along the Murray.

Mardi Gras

Sydney, NSW: 13 February – 1 March

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ identities since 1978, Mardi Gras has become a cultural stalwart with connection and community at its core. Running across 17 days, the jam-packed program features everything from pool parties to comedy clubs. This year, more than 80 events will take over some of Sydney’s hottest venues, including Enmore Theatre and the Art Gallery of NSW.

BrisAsia

Brisbane, Qld: 14–15 February

The streets of Brisbane will be pulsing with energy this February at BrisAsia , a 10-day festival celebrating the Lunar New Year with everything from rooftop parties to garden picnics. This year is the Year of the Horse, representing strength, endurance, freedom, independence and momentum – values worth embracing in 2026.

St Kilda Festival

Melbourne, Vic: 14–15 February

The beloved St Kilda Festival returns in 2026 to celebrate summer along the city’s iconic foreshore. Designed to entertain all, the two-day program traverses everything from live music and interactive workshops to food trucks and market stalls. It kicks off with First Peoples First, a vibrant celebration of First Nations music and culture, followed by Big Festival Sunday.

Royal Canberra Show

Canberra, ACT: 20–22 February

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

Adelaide Fringe

Adelaide, SA: 20 February – 22 March

The largest arts festival in Australia will again bring its hometown of Adelaide alive throughout February and March this year. Its program is practically exploding with theatre, dance, comedy, film, music, circus and even magic. Think workshops, panel talks, community gatherings and family-friendly activities, plus plenty of food and drink from across the state and beyond.

Big Beer Festival

Bundaberg, Qld: 21 February

A tasting paddle of craft beers — Sample local craft beers via curated tasting paddles. (Image: Getty/JWU)

Raise a glass to Bundaberg’s beloved brewery scene at the Big Beer Festival in Alexandra Park. Sip your way through a wide range of craft pours, served alongside cocktails, wines and spirits for the beer-averse. A line-up of live music makes for the perfect soundtrack, while the official Beer Pong Tournament adds an energetic edge.

National Penny Farthing Championships

Evandale, Tas: 21 February

The National Penny Farthing Championships is cycling as you’ve never seen it; instead of the carbon rigs of today, competitors battle it out atop 1870s-style bicycles. There are multiple races throughout the day, from sprints and slaloms to relays and novelty laps. Trackside, spectators can enjoy a range of food stalls, markets and period-themed entertainment.

Noosa Summer Swim

Noosa, Qld: 21–22 February

Grab your togs and get ready for the Noosa Summer Swim , a water-filled weekend of saltwater, sand and sun. Held on the shores of Noosa Main Beach, it’s the perfect excuse to explore Australia’s most-loved town of 2025. Races range from a cruisy one-kilometre splash to the five-kilometre main event, with open-water clinics run by local experts for the less competitive.

Tropfest

Sydney, NSW: 22 February

The largest short film festival in the world will take over Sydney’s Centennial Parklands in February, featuring some of the biggest names in Hollywood right now. Don’t believe us? Take it from this year’s Jury President, Margot Robbie, instead. Global filmmakers are set to showcase their talents at Tropfest via a seven-minute movie, all for your screening pleasure.

Enlighten Festival

Canberra, ACT: 27 February – 9 March

Light, sound and movement collide in a kaleidoscope of colour at Enlighten Festival , an 11-day celebration of culture and creativity. The mesmerising display of artworks is not one to miss, as each masterpiece is projected onto the city’s most iconic buildings. From interactive after-dark experiences to live music line-ups and more, it’s clearly the place to be come February.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.