If 2026 won’t slow down, we won’t either. Consider your July calendar booked.

Recently, I made the mistake of checking my Notes app. Between random recounts of dreams and long-forgotten grocery lists, I spotted my 2026 goals. And while a lot of them have changed, and I could even tick a few off, it reminded me how fast this year has been going. Between work, life and trying to get eight hours of sleep each night, July kind of gave me a jump-scare.

But after a good browse of Australia’s annual calendar, I’m not surprised. July is practically bursting with energy, from mid-winter festivals to NAIDOC Week celebrations and more. So delete those half-written resolutions and draft texts to your ex and pop these epic events into your Notes app instead.

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

• Best foodie event: The Curated Plate, Sunshine Coast, Qld (25 July – 3 August)
• Best music event: Cabin fever, Margaret River, WA (18–27 July)
• Best cultural event: National Indigenous Art Fair, Sydney, NSW (5–6 July)
• Best outdoor event: Permission to Trespass, Table Cape, Tas (1–31 July)
• Best arts event: Warm Trees, Canberra, ACT (from 1 July)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

• Oysterpalooza in McLaren Vale, SA (1–3 August)
• National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards in Darwin, NT (8 August)
• Now or Never, Melbourne, Vic (21–31 August)
• Sydney Contemporary, NSW (11–14 September)
• Margaret River Region Open Studios, WA (13–28 September)

What’s on in NSW in July

National Indigenous Art Fair
Sydney
3–5 July

An icon of Australia’s arts and culture calendar, the National Indigenous Art Fair is returning to Sydney this year, marking the first edition at its new home at The Cutaway Barangaroo. Over one weekend, more than 100 First Nations artists, designers and makers from across the country will converge for the ethical art market. A series of intimate panel talks, immersive workshops and cultural performances will run alongside the event, providing the perfect opportunity to meet the artists and directly support remote communities.

Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival
Lovedale
10–11 July

NSW’s Hunter Valleyregion is known nationwide for its award-winning vineyards, but did you know it’s also home to an epic ale trail, too? That’s why it’s the perfect place for the Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival. The event sees over 50 of the region’s best wineries, distillers and brewers through its doors for your tasting pleasure.

Live music will keep the vibes high as you sip and sample your way around vendor stalls. The whole family is invited too, with plenty of kids’ entertainment to keep little ones occupied. Arrive a day earlier for an exclusive dinner with celebrity chef and TV personality, Miguel Maestre.

Bondi Festival
Sydney
3–19 July

The three-week Bondi Festival sees the seaside suburb it’s named after turn into an arts and entertainment hub for all. Held by the shore of one of Sydney’s best beaches, the curated event is to be informative and immersive, featuring performers and creators from across NSW and beyond.

This year, visitors can expect a lively program jam-packed with live music, theatre shows, panel talks, comedy galas, dance parties and foodie markets, as well as the return of the beloved ice-skating rink. Be sure to book a ride on the Bondi Ferris Wheel too – the view from up top never gets old

Riverina Readers Festival
Wagga Wagga
11 July

For just one day in July, the Riverina Readers Festival invites bookworms from across the region to share their love for this cosy pastime. The Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre acts as a stage for Aussie writers to share their ideas, creative processes and works – much to the delight of an enthusiastic audience.

This year’s program features plenty of literary greats, including Rachael Johns, William Kostakis, Stella Quinn and Mark Brandi. Also making an appearance is Shankari Chandran, whose Australian-based novel Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens won her the 2023 Miles Franklin Award.

SPIRITS FESTIVAL
SYDNEY
11–13 JULY

Cheers to the weekend at the 2025 Sydney Spirits Festival, a celebration of Australia’s incredible craft spirit scene. Across just three days, over 300 tipples will be available to try, from black gin and peanut butter whisky to rare mezcals and small-batch liqueurs.

Guests can look forward to unlimited tastings, as well as meet-and-greets, expert-run masterclasses and global street food stalls. While there are five sessions in total, two have already sold out – so nab your tickets before it’s too late!

What’s on in Victoria in July

FIRESIDE YARRA VALLEY
YARRA VALLEY
27 JUNE – 13 JULY

Victorians, get ready to get cosy. This July, celebrate the very best of winter at Fireside Yarra Valley. Check it out and you’re in for cosy nights by blazing fires, indulging in woodfired feasts and sipping on immaculate regional wines. Does it get any better?

Unfolding over 17 delightful days, guests can indulge in culinary experiences featuring homegrown produce, intimate tastings at regional vineyards and long-table feasts to linger over. Don’t miss the twilight markets, which will spotlight local businesses, including 40+ premium Yarra Valley wines.

LAGER LOVEFEST
MELBOURNE
5 JULY

For just one day only, hop heads will converge on KAIJU! Beer & Pizza in Melbourne for Lager LoveFest. It’s all in the name with this one – a full day dedicated to lager and all those who love it! For just $20 per person, you’ll get a bucket of lager and discounted pizza and pint prices.

However, the highlight of the day is a one-off, behind-the-taps lager masterclass hosted by KAIJU! co-founder Nat Reeves and Crafty Pint writer Will Ziebell. The self-professed lager lovers will walk guests through a guided tasting of four handpicked lagers as they chat all things beer.

BALLARAT WINTER FESTIVAL
BALLARAT
5–27 JULY

Experience a winter wonderland in the heart of regional Victoria at the 2025 Ballarat Winter Festival. The three-week program is brimming with exciting things to do, from workshops and family-friendly activities to live music and food stalls to keep you warm.

Cast your vote at the hot choc showdown, join a Harry Potter treasure hunt and skate away on the pop-up ice rink. Don’t miss Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights either – running throughout the festival, it’s always an annual program highlight.

COLLECTFEST
MELBOURNE
5–6 JULY

Australia’s first major collectables festival is coming to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre this July. CollectFest is a haven of happiness for all kinds of collectors and hobbyists, with over 100 exhibitors touting everything from comics and coins to sneakers and stamps.

Whether you’re a collecting connoisseur or just a casual browser, you’re sure to stumble on a hidden gem or two. After a weekend in the Victorian capital, CollectFest will go on to hit Brisbane (26–27 July) and Sydney (23–24 August).

ISLAND WHALE FESTIVAL
PHILLIP ISLAND
11–13 JULY

It’s that time of year again! Humpback whales, southern right whales, and (occasionally) killer whales are all migrating north for the winter – and they’re heading right by Phillip Island. The chances of spotting these magnificent creatures are so high here that there’s even a festival for it.

The community-driven Island Whale Festival celebrates and appreciates the island’s connection to nature, especially the whales that journey past each year. Animal lovers are truly in for a treat, as Phillip Island is also one of the best places to see penguins in Australia. Don’t forget your camera!

What’s on in Queensland in July

THE CURATED PLATE
SUNSHINE COAST
25 JULY – 3 AUGUST

The Curated Plate is the Sunshine Coast’s premier food and drink event, showcasing more than 50 mouth-watering events over 10 days from July to August. And with more of Queensland’s food bowl to discover than ever before, 2025 is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Foodies can expect plenty of finger-licking events, from First Nations feasts and dinner degustations to twilight markets and tea parties. Other program highlights include Coast to Hinterland: A Wine Tasting Experience, Sunset Ales, Whales and Prawn Tails and the Feel Good Frothy Rodeo – just to name a few.

CAIRNS INDIGENOUS ART FAIR
CAIRNS
10–13 JULY

The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) is one of the biggest celebrations of Indigenous art across the country. The curated space is an ethical marketplace showcasing authentic and original artwork from well-known and up-and-coming Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

This year’s theme, ‘Pay Attention!’, is a call to action following the 2023 Voice Referendum. As well as an amazing collection of Indigenous artwork, visitors can expect a fashion show, family activities, live performances and a variety of artistic workshops, including weaving and dancing.

BIG RED BASH
BIRDSVILLE
8–9 JULY

One of the world’s most remote music festivals – the Birdsville Big Red Bash – is set to return this July, drawing festival-goers to the remote red sands of Queensland’s Simpson Desert. This year’s stellar line-up includes Tina Arena, Ian Moss, Vanessa Amorosi, Casey Barnes and more.

Program highlights include the Bashville drag race, sunrise yoga, doggie dress-up day, sand dune surfing, helicopter rides and multiple world record attempts. The event is BYO food and alcohol (although there are plenty of hospitality vendors onsite).

DESERT CHAMPIONS WAY
OUTBACK QUEENSLAND
5–26 JULY

This year marks the first-ever Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail, and the excitement across Queensland is palpable. Spanning five iconic towns – Jundah, Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia and Winton – this is a true choose-your-own-adventure.

The self-guided trail features a range of events over four thrilling weekends. Whether you’re cheering on the camel races, soaking up storytelling in Winton or dancing at the Birdsville Camel Carnival, it’s one of Australia’s most incredible outback experiences.

SUPERCARS NTI TOWNSVILLE 500
TOWNSVILLE
11–13 JULY

The 2025 Supercars NTI Townsville 500 is an exciting tropical motorsport experience that draws fans from across Australia. This year, it’s all about returning to the city’s roots, with supercar racing taking centre stage alongside the thrilling addition of Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia.

Off-track, the weekend heats up with the Summernats Pro Burnout Series – the city’s drifting, car builds and MotorEx automotive expo. Fans can also enjoy a range of freestyle motocross, ADF displays, live music and interactive activities.

THE BALVENIE X LENNOX HASTIE
THE WHITSUNDAYS
12 JULY

Those looking for a bit of winter warmth should book The Balvenie x Lennox Hastie dining experience. Guests will dine under the stars on the sands of Hayman Island as part of the pop-up, which coincides with the 75th anniversary celebrations of the InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef.

Gourmands will recognise Lennox Hastie as one of the culinary pitmasters from the 2020 episode of Chef’s Table entitled BBQ. Fans of the chef can see Hastie’s skills firsthand during the bespoke five-course dinner, which will be matched with Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. 

What’s on in Tasmania in July

MID-WINTER FESTIVAL
HUON VALLEY
12, 19 & 26 JULY

Held in one of Tasmania’s most jaw-dropping regions, the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival is hosted by local favourite Willie Smith’s cider house and orchard, just a 25-minute drive out of Hobart. The pagan-inspired event is a celebration of the region’s apple history and the light that can be found in winter’s darkness.

The central focus of the festival is the wassail, an ancient tradition still celebrated in the West Country of England. Revellers in full pagan get-up chant incantations, bang pots and shoot guns to wake up dormant apple trees in the hope of a good season ahead. Festivities are complemented by folk music, feasting, and, of course, lashings of cider.

BICHENO BEAMS
BICHENO
28 JUNE – 19 JULY

The skies above Tasmania’s east coast will come alive with magnificent and mesmerising beams of light this July at Bicheno Beams. The kaleidoscope of colour is a free world-class laser light show, accompanied by a specially synchronised soundtrack for a truly immersive experience.

Across 22 nights, two different light shows will take over the sky, each starting at 6:30 pm daily. Entry is free from 6 pm, and visitors are encouraged to linger longer and enjoy each awe-inspiring show surrounded by family and friends.

LIGHTWAVE
NUBEENA
11–13 JULY

It may be cold, but head to the small Tassie town of Nubeena on the Tasman Peninsula and you’ll be rewarded with Lightwave. Presented by Turrakana Tasman Arts, this three-day annual arts festival is all about celebrating the people and places of the peninsula.

There are plenty of free events this year, from local music and live entertainment to sculpture workshops and headdress-making masterclasses. Nubeena’s CWA Hall will also be transformed by the Tasman Home Education Collective into an immersive environment to relax, unwind and rest.

PERMISSION TO TREPASS
TABLE CAPE
1–31 JULY

The gate out the front may be shut, but guests attending Permission to Trepass have full authorisation to do just that. For one month each year, both Tasmanians and tourists alike are invited to explore multiple private properties across Wynyard and Table Cape. 

You’ll have exclusive access to landscapes and lots that are usually sealed off to the public year-round, revealing some of north-west Tassie‘s best-kept secrets. Workshops, tastings, guided tours and more will connect you to untold stories of this stunning region – just don’t tell anyone!

What’s on in Western Australia in July

CABIN FEVER
MARGARET RIVER
18–27 JULY

Does winter bring to mind quality brews, comfort food, rockin’ music, self-contained chalets and acres of breathtaking forest? Then WA’s Cabin Fever is the festival for you. With over 30 unique events spanning food, beer, wine, learning, playing and live music, guests will be spoilt for choice.

Program highlights include Blazing Brews at Beerfarm, Busselton Pavilion’s Cape to Plate, the Cheese Toastie Battle at Shelter Brewing, Fermoy’s Estate’s Cosy with Cabernet, just to name a few. Experience the region across 10 wintry days that will leave you warm, wondrous and wanting more.

MOWANJUM FESTIVAL
DERBY
11 JULY

Embrace the rich culture of the Ngarinyin, Worrorra and Wunambal peoples during the Mowanjum Festival this July. The event is held in Derby, a small town located along the Gibb River Road, an icon among Australia’s best road trips.

The full day event sees festival-goers can participate in workshops, witness live performances and learn through First Nations storytelling. Come evening, be sure to catch the Junba, a traditional song and dance that ensures Indigenous knowledge is passed on to future generations.

AC MILAN VS PERTH GLORY
PERTH
31 JULY

Famed Italian football club AC Milan will take on Perth Glory, Western Australia’s star team, at the capital’s HBF Park this July. While the match is only a friendly (a game of football played outside a formal league), fans are already waiting with bated breath.

The highly anticipated game is sure to draw a crowd, being the first-ever match between two Serie A sides on Australian soil. Those keen to catch the clash should purchase tickets ASAP – they’re sure to sell out fast.

What’s on in South Australia in July

ILLUMINATE ADELAIDE
ADELAIDE
2–20 JULY

Each year, Illuminate Adelaide brings together some of the best in art, music and technology from around the world and sets it loose across the city. Known as one of Adelaide’s best festivals, the captivating event is an invitation for you to shake off the winter blues and rekindle a sense of wonder.

Throughout most of July, both free and ticketed events will showcase works by local, national and international artists across the capital. The program is as vivid and vibrant as its exhibits, from immersive light installations like Night Vision and live performances by Kiasmos to wine tastings, dance parties, dining experiences and more.

WINTER REDS
ADELAIDE HILLS
25–27 JULY

If your favourite way to hold heat in winter is indulging in a warming vino, then Winter Reds is for you. The festival is held in South Australia’s gorgeous Adelaide Hills, renowned for its award-winning wineries. Whether you prefer a peppery shiraz or an aromatic pinot noir, there’s something for all oenophiles.

Located across a variety of vineyards and restaurants, guests can enjoy cosy long lunches, fireside feasts, live music, art and family-friendly fun. Get ready to nurse a glass of your favourite wine by the fire and nourish your body with rustic fare – we’ll cheers to that!

CUTTLEFEST
WHYALLA
THROUGHOUT JULY

CuttleFest is a unique event that celebrates the incredible Giant Australian Cuttlefish. It’s truly an ocean lover’s dream, as attendees have the opportunity to swim with the majestic creature that can change colour, shape and texture right before your eyes.

Making it even more special is the fact that this huge aggregation of Giant Australian Cuttlefish happens in only one place on Earth, and that’s the Upper Spencer Gulf in South Australia. Witness tens of thousands of these marine wonders on a guided snorkelling tour with Experiencing Marine Sanctuaries – it may be your only chance!

TREASURES OF THE VIKING AGE
ADELAIDE
UNTIL 27 JULY

July is your last chance to catch Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard at Adelaide’s South Australian Museum. At the end of the month, the landmark exhibition will officially close its doors after a successful six-month showcase of over 100 rare items. 

The exhibition is considered to be the most remarkable collection of Viking-era objects, which were buried in Scotland for a millennium. It is the first time these history-defining artefacts have travelled outside the United Kingdom, making it a must-see for all.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in July

DEADLY CUP CARNIVAL
DARWIN
6 JULY

This year, the ever-exciting Deadly Cup Rugby League Carnival will again be held at TRL Stadium in Darwin. The free event celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, promotes health and wellbeing, and showcases Rugby League talent from across the state. The carnival is a family-friendly, smoke, drug and alcohol-free event that is all about connection and community.

FRINGE FESTIVAL
DARWIN
11–20 JULY

The Darwin Fringe Festival is the biggest platform for emerging artists in the Top End. The open-access event supports the development of the community, providing opportunities for artists to showcase new and diverse works to local and national audiences.

The 2025 program is bursting at the seams with action, from theatre shows, circus acts and live music performances to film, stand-up comedy and cabaret. With over 100 shows covering a variety of genres, it is a fabulous 10 days in July.

NT IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL
DARWIN
12 JULY

Darwin’s large Irish population may come as a surprise to some, but not to the copious number of people who turn up to the NT Irish Music Festival. Back for its third year in 2025, the live music concert is held at the Darwin Ski Club, which truly sets the stage for an unforgettable day.

If you love a good St Patrick’s Day celebration, you’ll love this. Expect foot-stomping live music from an epic Irish line-up, as well as high-energy Irish dancing, traditional Irish fare and, of course, a glass (or two) of Guinness to keep the festivities going. 

What’s on in the ACT in July

WARM TREES
CANBERRA
FROM 1 JULY

Even the trees at the National Arboretum get cosy during winter.

Witness winter in its cutest and cosiest form at Canberra’s National Arboretum with Warm Trees. Visitors can stroll through forests of trees that have been lovingly wrapped up to brave the colder months in colourful, hand-woven scarves made by volunteers.

As it does each year, the annual installation has teamed up with a national embassy to showcase one of the world’s unique cultures. This year, it’s the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, whose national icons will be on display throughout the two-month outdoor exhibition.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY
CANBERRA
3–6 JULY

Ever wondered what it might be like to experience the festive season cocooned in your coat rather than cozzies? Head to Canberra this winter and you can have it, thanks to Christmas in July. Over four days in the country’s capital, visitors are invited to revel in the cold of a white Christmas, inspired by the famous Christkindelsmärik in Europe.

Exploring artisan markets, enjoying live music, wandering Snow Lane, sampling boozy hot chocolate and taking part in Christmas carols are all part and parcel here. Sydneysiders, don’t be (too) jealous – we’ve got our own version, complete with Australia’s first outdoor Fire Pit Cinema.

MR SQUIGGLE & FRIENDS
CANBERRA
FROM 4 JULY

If you grew up in the 90s, you’re about to take a serious trip down memory lane. Opening at the National Museum of Australia this month is Mr Squiggle & Friends, a behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s most iconic children’s TV shows.

The world-first exhibition celebrates the imagination of the show’s creator, Norman Hetherington, with more than 300 objects such as artwork, scripts, puppets, costumes and sets. Keep your eyes peeled for Blackboard, Bill Steamshovel, Gus the Snail and even Mr Squiggle himself!

21 HEARTS
CANBERRA
24 JULY – 3 AUGUST

Catch 21 Hearts: Vivian Bullwinkel and the Nurses of the Vyner Brooke at the Australian War Memorial Theatre in Canberra this July, a compelling true story of courage, resilience and heart. In one of the most atrocious war crimes in history, 22 nurses were forced to march into the sea where they were callously machine gunned.

The only survivor and witness, Vivian spent the rest of the war in a prison camp before liberation, and her remaining years fighting for recognition of her friends and colleagues. 21 Hearts provides a respectful and authentic voice to those who were silenced, remembering them for who they were and not just for what happened to them.