February events around Australia that are worth circling on your calendar.

As the holiday season officially comes to a close, it can feel a little deflating settling back into your regular routine. So why not spice up the agenda by RSVPing to some fun and firey events happening around Australia this month?

From art exhibitions and music festivals to regional events and big-city summits, here’s how you can flip your February from mundane to magnificent.

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 films 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 come 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 take 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 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 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.

TASMANIAN WINE FESTIVAL
HOBART
8–9 FEBRUARY

Each year, oenophiles come together along Hobart’s stunning waterfront for the Tasmanian Wine Festival . It’s an incredible showcase of the finest island-state vino, where you can sip and sample the finest drops from Tassie’s best cellar doors.

The festival acts as a tasting tour of the world-class cool-climate wines that Tasmania is known for. Add in a good helping of gourmet local produce and a generous sprinkle of live music and you’ve got the recipe for a fantastic and filling weekend.

GARLIC FESTIVAL
KOONYA
22 FEBRUARY

Tasmania’s love affair with garlic is no secret. And, like many years before, the beloved bulbous plant will take centre stage for one delectable day at the Koonya Garlic Festival .

Delight in garlicky flavours, catch live cooking demos, enjoy music performances, sharpen your skills in hands-on workshops and meet local growers. Whether you’re a foodie, green thumb or simply garlic-obsessed, the flavour-packed festival is sure to impress.

What’s on in Western Australia in February

PERTH FESTIVAL
PERTH
7 FEBRUARY – 2 MARCH

The not-for-profit Perth Festival program has been designed from day one to please all, with everything from performance and music to film, literature and art. Both free and ticketed experiences allow visitors to create their own unique itinerary based on not only their interests but their budgets, too.

Amazing local and international artists will grace the WA capital in 2025, like Jordan Rakei, Fontaines D.C., Hania Rani, Emily Wurramara and more. Over 120 events will keep Perthians entertained across the one-month festival, from choose-your-own-adventure productions to intimate dinner party performances.

BOYUP BROOK COUNTRY MUSIC MUSTER
BOYUP BROOK
13–16 FEBRUARY

Experience the power of a small community creating something big at the Boyup Brook Country Music Muster  in south-west WA. For more than 30 years, the townsfolk of Boyup Brook have volunteered to put together the country music celebration by the winding Blackwood River.

It’s the epitome of country living in all the best ways, from bush poetry slams and yarn spinning classes to ute parades, art exhibitions and, of course, a lot of good ol’ country music. Fans of Claudia Tripp, Boodji Creek Band and Lee Forster would be remiss to skip it.

LANEWAY FESTIVAL
PERTH
16 FEBRUARY

It’s time to get hyped – an all-star international line-up is headed to Perth this month for St Jerome’s Laneway Festival . Think headliners like multi-award-winning singer Charli XCX, Clairo, Remi Wolf and Skeggs, as well as plenty of Aussie artists taking to the stage before them.

Laneway is known as one of the hottest summer festivals in Australia, consistently attracting thousands of festival-goers year after year. Perth will be the final city on the iconic music festival’s 2025 tour around Australia, preceded by Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

ROTTNEST CHANNEL SWIM
COTTESLOE
22 FEBRUARY

Tug on your togs and get ready for the 19.7-kilometre open-water Rottnest Channel Swim  from Cottesloe Beach to WA’s iconic quokka-filled island. The aquatic event attracts a large crowd, with family and friends welcome to come down and check out the action.

There are a range of categories for keen competitors to choose from, with solo, tandem solo, duo and team swims all on the cards. Paddlers and support boats will be on the water for the long journey’s entirety, as safety remains a top priority from go-time to the finish line.

What’s on in South Australia in February

ADELAIDE FRINGE
ADELAIDE
21 FEBRUARY – 23 MARCH

The largest arts festival in Australia  will again bring its hometown of Adelaide alive throughout February and into March. Every skerrick of the city becomes immersed in the arts, from comedians in pubs and one-man productions to after-dark cabaret and interactive murder mysteries.

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. What more could you need?

TASTE THE LIMESTONE COAST
NARACOORTE
10 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 with friendly artisans touting 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.

FLEURIEU FILM FESTIVAL
MCLAREN VALE
8 FEBRUARY

The Fleurieu Film Festival  is a competitive short film-focused event held in McLaren Vale on the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula each year. Attracting an array of talented filmmakers across a variety of genres, it’s the perfect place for movie critics, budding directors and motion picture aficionados to share their love of the big screen.

In exciting news, the 2025 finalists have already been announced, so guests can suss out what incredible films they’ll be viewing come screening night. Make the most of your time in McLaren Vale, by visiting some of the region’s award-winning wineries, too.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in February

BIG SKY EXHIBITION
KATHERINE
14 FEBRUARY – 21 MARCH

Opening this month, the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre presents Adam Ferguson’s Big Sky: A Photographic Survey of Australia’s Heartland. The impressive exhibition spans a decade of the photographer’s work across the country’s beautiful outback, highlighting challenges like globalisation and climate change.

Australian-born and New York-based, Ferguson returns home to share his profound exhibition with the Australian public. Visitors to the Katherine art gallery can expect moving shots that perfectly capture the essence of rural life while touching on the decline of small towns.

IMPARJA CUP
ALICE SPRINGS
15–19 FEBRUARY

Australia’s largest Indigenous cricket festival 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 local towns – Alice Springs vs Tennant Creek.

Since then, the cup has gone on to become one of the region’s biggest 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 2025.

TRAVELLING FILM FESTIVAL
DARWIN
20–23 FEBRUARY

The much-loved Travelling Film Festival  showcases national and international features, documentaries and short films across regional Australia. What makes the three-day movie marathon so special though is its unique programs, which are curated to match each place it visits. This means that each year, guests experience something new and exciting based on the place that they call home.

The 2025 program for Darwin is looking good, with a plethora of films touching on numerous topics and themes. Held at the city’s BCC Cinemas Casuarina, this year’s event will open with Sing Sing, a SXSW Audience winner starring Oscar nominee, Colman Domingo.

What’s on in the ACT in February

NATIONAL MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
7–9 FEBRUARY

This year marks the 27th anniversary of the National Multicultural Festival . The community-led event celebrates the multiculturalism and diversity of Canberra, with a program inclusive of culture, music, food and entertainment for all to enjoy.

After a record-breaking event last year, which saw 170 cultures celebrated across 300 live performance groups and 264 stalls, 2025 is looking brighter than ever for the festival. Held in Canberra’s CBD and expansive Glebe Park, guests can look forward to live music, cooking demonstrations, cultural workshops, market stalls, roving performances and so much more.

ROYAL CANBERRA SHOW
CANBERRA
21–23 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 show has expanded to include rides, entertainment, educational features, exhibitions and plenty of food.

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, dog show and rides to the multitude of eateries offering up delicious local fare, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

ENLIGHTEN FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
28 FEBRUARY – 10 MARCH

Light, sound and movement collide in a kaleidoscope of colour at Enlighten Festival . The mesmerising showcase of local and international artworks is not one to miss, with each masterpiece being projected onto Canberra’s most iconic and recognisable buildings.

From interactive after-dark experiences to live music line-ups and more, the nation’s capital is clearly the place to be this month. If you’ve got a bit of extra time, be sure to stick around a little longer to witness the iconic Canberra Balloon Spectacular (15–23 March) – you won’t regret it.