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.

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au