February is full of fun – if you know where to look.

The holiday haze has officially lifted, my out-of-office is a distant memory, and suddenly, real life is back in full swing. It can be a little deflating after weeks of long lunches, late nights and no alarms – which is exactly why we need to get out there and give ourselves something to look forward to!

Lucky for us, February comes with plenty of built-in reasons to celebrate. Not only is it my birthday month (shameless plug, I know), but it’s also Valentine’s Day season – the perfect excuse for a little extra TLC. And with a calendar full of cultural fixes, art exhibitions, music festivals, foodie pop-ups and more, consider this permission to treat yourself.

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

• Best foodie event: Gather & Graze, Barossa Valley, SA (21 Feb)
• Best music event: QSO Favourites, Brisbane, Qld (7 Feb)
• Best cultural event: Mardi Gras, Sydney, NSW (13 Feb–1 Mar)
• Best outdoor event: Feastival, Falls Creek, Vic (13–15 Feb)
• Best arts event: Women Photographers: 1853–2018 Canberra, ACT (until 1 Mar)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

• WOMADelaide, Adelaide, SA (6–9 Mar)
• Begonia Festival, Ballarat, Vic (7–9 Mar)
• ECHO Festival, Swansea, Tas (14–16 Mar)
• Orange Food Week, Orange, NSW (28 Mar–6 Apr)
• Jamba Nyinayi, Coral Bay, WA (18–20 Apr)

What’s on in NSW in February

Mardi Gras
Sydney
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 sumptuous 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, from Laugh Out Proud at Enmore Theatre to Queer Art After Hours at the Art Gallery of NSW. Under the theme ECSTATICA, you’ll step into a world where joy becomes movement and celebration becomes power.

Bathurst 12 Hour
Bathurst
13–15 February

Get ready, revheads, the prestigious Bathurst 12 Hour returns to Mount Panorama Circuit this February, bringing with it an epic multi-class line-up. Featuring some of the world’s top teams and drivers, the annual endurance race is a stalwart of Australia’s motorsports calendar.

This year, guests can expect to catch the best in global GT3 cars, fuelled by cutting-edge technology and enough engine power to blow your hat off. If you can spare a few moments away from the track, be sure to check out the Paddock for plenty of behind-the-scenes action.

Tropfest
Sydney
22 February

The largest short film festival in the world will take over Sydney’s Centennial Parklands this month, 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.

Both Australian and international filmmakers are set to showcase their talents at Tropfest via a seven-minute movie. The sole requirement? Inclusion of the 2026 Tropfest Signature Item – an hourglass – to ensure all films have been made specifically for the festival.

Garabari
Wollongong
6–14 February

Merrigong Theatre Company, in association with BlakDance, is bringing Garabari to audiences for an immersive corroboree this February. Blending bodies, light, sound, music and movement, it shares the Giilang (story and song) of the making of Murrumbidgee River, a major tributary of the Murray-Darling system.

Guests can choose to view the multi-sensory show in two distinct settings: the Wollongong Town Hall or Dapto Ribbonwood Centre. Directed and choreographed by acclaimed Wiradjuri artist Joel Bray with the help of local Elders, it’s promised to be a theatre experience like no other.

Australia v India
Sydney
15 February

The highly anticipated T20 series between Australia and India takes place this month, promising seven days of nail-biting action across the country. Over the week, there will be three cricket matches in total – but it all kicks off at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on the 15th.

After the SCG, the T20 matches will carry on to Canberra and Adelaide, respectively. And while the official line-up is yet to be confirmed, with legends like Annabel Sutherland and Ellyse Perry on our side, Australia has a good chance of nabbing the crown in 2026.

Love Lanes Festival
Central Coast
7 February

The Central Coast’s exciting calendar of events opens with Love Lanes Festival this year, an evening of live music and entertainment in the streets of Wyong. The Valentine’s-themed affair will transform four lanes, four stages and one park into a celebration of love for all to enjoy.

Attendees can look forward to shows by local musicians, roving performers and circus acts, as well as food trucks, market stalls, a secret garden and more. Running from 4pm–9pm, it’s one of the Central Coast’s most enchanting nights of the year.

What’s on in Victoria in February

St Kilda Festival
Melbourne
14–15 February

The annual (and beloved) St Kilda Festival returns in 2026 to celebrate summer along the city’s iconic foreshore. Designed to entertain all, the extended two-day program traverses everything from live music and interactive workshops to food trucks and market stalls.

It begins with the 20th edition of First Peoples First, a vibrant celebration of First Nations music and culture, followed by Big Festival Sunday. Now in its 40th year, the show will feature big names like Jessica Mauboy and Sneaky Sound System – all backdropped by one of the best beaches in Melbourne.

Riverboats Music Festival
Echuca-Moama
13–15 February

At the convergence of two historic regional towns on Yorta Yorta Country, the Riverboats Music Festival entertains regional Victorians 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 in 2026.

Much to the delight of guests, the festival’s intimate sideshows will also return thanks to Echuca Paddlesteamers. The series of cosy one-hour gigs takes place aboard the historic PS Pevensey as it makes its way down the Murray River, gently rocking to the tune of musicians like Merpire and Norwood.

A velvet ant, a flower and a bird
Melbourne
From 19 February

The University of Melbourne’s Potter Museum of Art unveils A velvet ant, a flower and a bird this month, gathered from the institute’s Classics, Biology and Art collections. Historic and contemporary pieces will work in dialogue to reframe intelligence as something shared across all living ecosystems.

In its first days, the free exhibition will also feature a vibrant public program, including conversations with curator Chus Martínez and many of its artists. ‘A velvet ant, a flower and a bird’ is the museum’s second exhibit since reopening in May 2025 and will run until the beginning of June.

Feastival
Falls Creek
13–15 February

It may be home to one of Australia’s top ski resorts, but there’s more to the alpine resort town of Falls Creek than meets the eye. To be more specific, it’s called Feastival – and it’s an epic celebration all about showcasing the region’s best art, music, food, wine and culture.

Guests are invited to dive right in, with everything from comedy nights and art exhibitions to stargazing walks and yoga sessions. But at the heart of the three-day program is Feast de Résistance, an evening of live music from Aussie talents like Ruby Fields, The Jungle Giants, Groove City, The Dreggs and more.

Melbourne Art Fair
Melbourne
19–22 February

The Melbourne Art Fair will again take over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in the inner-city suburb of South Wharf this year. For the show’s 19th iteration, works from over 60 of Australia’s leading galleries and Indigenous-owned art centres are set to fill the space.

Both art aficionados and the creatively curious are well-catered for, with a program spanning mediums like installation and sculpture to video and portraiture. Don’t miss out on CONVERSATIONS, a scintillating panel talk series hosted in a giant inflatable bubble structure.

What’s on in Queensland in February

Noosa Summer Swim
Sunshine Coast
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. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or simply keen to beat the blistering heat, you’re in for a whale of a time.

BrisAsia
Brisbane
13–22 February

The streets of Brisbane will be pulsing with energy this month at BrisAsia , a 10-day festival celebrating the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse. In the Chinese zodiac, the horse represents strength, endurance, freedom, independence and momentum – values worth embracing in 2026.

The jam-packed program is squeezing in the most action possible, as multiple events unfold across the city each day. With everything from live dance battles and rooftop parties to improv workshops and garden picnics, guests are in for a real treat.

Gold Coast Open
Burleigh Heads
18–22 February

Nothing screams Queensland like an epic surf battle in the middle of summer – and the annual Gold Coast Open delivers in spades. Running for just five days, the fierce competition sees some of the world’s top surfers battle it out for the biggest and best waves on the coast.

Peel yourself from the action, and you’ll discover the entertainment extends beyond the swell, with live bands, skateboarding demos and sunrise yoga sessions also on the agenda. Or take it easy on a wander through the hip neighbourhood of Burleigh Heads, where the event is hosted, to discover local gems.

QSO Favourites
Brisbane
7 February

To honour the month of love, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra has put together a program of pure romance. It all kicks off with QSO Favourites in Brisbane, a feel-good concert featuring some of the most recognisable pieces in the classical canon chosen by an audience vote.

But that’s not all. Guests can enjoy a curated collection of intimate performances throughout February, including two installations of its QSO Portraits series. The month rounds out with The Music of John Williams , bringing some of the composer’s greatest scores to life under the baton of Nicholas Buc.

Big Beer Festival
Bundaberg
21 February

Raise a glass to Bundaberg’s beloved brewery scene at the Big Beer Festival , returning to Alexandra Park this month. 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 to an otherwise laidback day. Think you’ve got what it takes? Step up for the challenge, and you could walk away with the iconic Big Beer Cup.

What’s on in Tasmania in February

Party in the Paddock
Carrick
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 the best summer festivals in Australia.

Created by Triple J in 2013, Party in the Paddock is exactly what is says on the tin: a four-day outdoor extravaganza of live music held on a sprawling green pasture. This year’s line-up is a crowd pleaser, too – think Ocean Alley, The Veronicas, Peking Duk, Ball Park Music and more.

Festa Italia
Hobart
15 February

Transport yourself to the cobblestoned streets of Europe’s culinary heart at Festa Italia , a cultural celebration of all things Italy. Follow your nose to Federal Street in the city centre, and you’ll be rewarded with as much delicious Italian food as your heart (and stomach) desires.

The menu spans all things sweet and savoury, from pizza, pasta and arancini to cannoli, tiramisù and gelato – all just waiting to be gobbled up. It’s a great day out for the whole family, with live music and a bustling atmosphere adding to the excitement.

National Penny Farthing Championships
Evandale
21 February

The historic streets of Evandale will again play host to the ever-eccentric National Penny Farthing Championships . The beloved community event is cycling as you’ve never seen it; instead of the sleek carbon rigs of today, competitors battle it out atop teetering 1870s-style bicycles.

There are multiple races held throughout the day, from sprints and slaloms to relays and novelty laps, all of which promise a good giggle. Trackside, spectators can also enjoy a wide range of food and market stalls, as well as an epic period-themed entertainment program.

Tasmanian Wine Festival
Hobart
7–8 February

Each year, hundreds of oenophiles descend upon Hobart’s stunning Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens for the exact same reason. To get a taste of the state’s top tipples at the Tasmanian Wine Festival , where delicious local produce and live music add to the occasion.

The two-day experience reads as a love letter to Tassie’s best cellar doors, like the Coal River Valley’s Frogmore Creek and Gala Estate on the Tasman Peninsula. With more than 250 wines to choose from, you’ve got the recipe for a celebratory weekend, indeed.

What’s on in Western Australia in February

Perth Festival
Perth
6 February – 1 March

The not-for-profit 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 in 2026, with local and international 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. The best part? Both free and ticketed experiences allow you to build your own itinerary based on not just your interests but your budget, too.

Rottnest Channel Swim
Perth/Rottnest Island
21 February

Tug on your togs and dive headfirst into the annual Rottnest Channel Swim – if you can brave the near-20-kilometre journey! Beginning from Cottesloe Beach, the aquatic event guides participants across the ocean channel to the home of the humble quokka, Rottnest Island.

Keen to give it a crack? There is a range of categories available depending on your swimming skills, from tandem solos to four-person teams. Back on land, spectators can rest assured, as paddlers and support boats keep competitors company all the way to the finish line.

Terracotta Warriors
Perth
Until 22 February

One of the world’s most significant art collections will wrap up its residence at the WA Museum Boola Bardip this month. this month. The global collaboration with China’s Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Centre and the Emperor Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum has been on display for eight months, providing Perth with a cultural experience rarely had outside of Asia.

While over 225 authentic artefacts from the original archaeological site in China are showcased, ‘Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor‘ includes a small assembly of the soldiers themselves. It’s a historic occasion that marks a major milestone in the arts – and February may just be your last chance to see it.

Laneway Festival
Perth
15 February

Get ready, Australia – an all-star line-up is headed to Perth for Laneway Festival this month. Boogie the day away at Arena Joondalup while headliners like Chappel Roan, PinkPantheress, Role Model, and Wolf Alice take to the stage in front of you.

There will be a range of food trucks and beverage bars operating throughout the day, as well as plenty of free water stations to keep you hydrated, too. Perth marks the final city on the iconic music festival’s 2025/26 tour around Australia, preceded by the Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

What’s on in South Australia in February

Adelaide Fringe
Adelaide
20 February – 22 March

The largest arts festival in Australia , and the winner of our Best Festival to Travel For Readers’ Choice Award, will again bring its hometown of Adelaide alive throughout February and March this year. Every skerrick of the city becomes immersed in the arts, from comedians in pubs and one-man productions to after-dark cabaret and interactive art exhibitions.

This year, the program is practically exploding with theatre, dance, comedy, film, music, circus and even magic. There will also be workshops, panel talks, community gatherings and family-friendly activities, plus plenty of food and drink from across the state and beyond.

Gather & Graze
Barossa Valley
21 February

Kingsford The Barossa is opening up its sprawling luxury property for Gather & Graze , designed to introduce guests to local producers. It all kicks off with the Peppertree Pizza Party, a collaboration between The Dairyman Barossa’s Michael Wohlstadt and Vincenzo La Montagna of Latteria Fresca.

For $60 per person, guests can dive into a selection of hand-stretched woodfired pizzas, with toppings like barbecue oyster mushroom, pork sausage and caramelised bacon – all topped with The Dairyman’s fresh fior di latte (cheese). Don’t worry, the wine hasn’t been forgotten about either.

LIV Golf Tournament
Adelaide
12–15 February

One of the standout sporting weekends of 2026 tees off at The Grange in Adelaide, where LIV Golf will deliver four days of world-class competition. Expect nail-biting action from every green, plus live music, fan zones and food trucks away from the fairway.

Whether you’re chasing the pros from hole to hole or kicking back in an exclusive shaded area, there’s a viewpoint from every angle. Don’t miss out on a grounds pass for exclusive access to events, upgraded concert seating and elevated hospitality experiences.

Taste the Limestone Coast
Naracoorte
7 February

Held along one of South Australia’s most picturesque stretches of coastline, Taste the Limestone Coast  is all about showcasing the region’s amazing home-grown produce. Tastebuds are sure to be tantalised, as friendly artisans serve up dishes made from fresh flavours and ingredients.

Locally sourced wine, beer and gin are also on the menu. With plenty of pop-up stalls, live music and a range of fun activities, it’s no wonder this regional foodie hub is a highlight on the state’s events calendar.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in February

Single Channel
Darwin
Until 28 February

On tour via the NGA in Canberra, Single Channel will round out its five-month tenure at Darwin Midpul Art Gallery as February ends. The exhibition has been drawn from the national collection, giving locals the chance to view globally recognised and usually inaccessible pieces.

Comprising moving-image artworks that span almost two decades from 2000 to 2019, it spotlights First Nations and Australian artists as they explore notions of identity in powerful and poignant ways. Featured creators include Tony Albert, Destiny Deacon, Virginia Fraser, Shaun Gladwell and more.

Imparja Cup
Alice Springs
20–24 February

Australia’s biggest festival of Indigenous cricket is returning to Alice Springs this month. Founded in 1993 by Custodians Shane Franey and Ross Williams, the Imparja Cup was originally a friendly match between two Northern Territory towns: Alice Springs and Tennant Creek.

Since then, the match has gone on to become one of the state’s hottest sporting events, with four separate divisions played across five days. The Imparja Schools Cup Day, which sees kids from local primary schools come down to compete, will also run again in 2026.

Travelling Film Festival
Darwin
19–22 February

The much-loved Travelling Film Festival brings films and documentaries from around the world to regional Australia. But what makes the four-day movie marathon so special is its program, which is curated to match each destination it visits.

This February, the festival is landing in Darwin with nine screenings that touch on everything from courage and hope to grief and loss. Held at the city’s BCC Cinemas Casuarina, it gives locals a chance to experience global stories close to home.

What’s on in the ACT in February

Women Photographers: 1853–2018
Canberra
Until 1 March

The National Gallery of Australia has united over 160 iconic images for Women Photographers: 1853–2018 . Captured by some of the 20th century’s most influential female photographers, the landmark exhibition reveals how each artist used the camera to challenge the world around her.

Follow historically significant movements through the lens, from feminism to environmentalism, to discover how their nuances shaped the lives of those who lived through them. In doing so, guests will gain insight not only into the photographs but also into the women and stories behind them.

Royal Canberra Show
Canberra
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.

Thanks to this incredible array of attractions, the show has become one of the best things to do in Canberra – especially with little ones in tow. From the farmyard nursery and dog show to the multitude of eateries offering up delicious local fare, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice.

Enlighten Festival
Canberra
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 local and international artworks is not one to miss, as each masterpiece is projected onto the city’s most iconic and recognisable buildings.

From interactive after-dark experiences to live music line-ups and more, Canberra is clearly the place to be come February. If you’ve got a bit of extra time, be sure to stick around a little longer to witness the iconic Balloon Spectacular  – a highlight of the capital’s annual calendar.