Did you know that South Australia has won the title of ‘Australia’s best festival state’ the last two years in a row? Yes, across the whole calendar year, there are a diverse range of events and festivals that showcase the best elements of the state’s culture.

So, if you’re planning a road trip to Adelaide over the next few months, what events can’t you miss? Don’t worry, we have your complete guide to spring events in the City of Churches!

Handpicked Festival 2017 (November 11)

South Australia is famous for its beautiful wineries, producing some of the finest drop in the country. As such, what better way to enjoy a warm spring than at Handpicked Festival, set in the stunning grounds of Lake Breeze Wines?

Only 50 minutes south of Adelaide, Handpicked Festival is a one-day event described as a “sensory overload”. With eight Australian award winning music acts including Matt Corby, JET and San Cisco, you can set up a spot on the grass with a glass of wine and simply enjoy the experience. In-between acts check out the handmade goods and local produce to top off the whole festival.

Tickets are still available so get in fast if you want to make Handpicked Festival a stop on your next road trip!

Feast Festival (November 11-26)

Adelaide is a city that welcomes people from all backgrounds including diverse sexualities and genders. This is why the Feast Festival has grown so much since the first event was held in 1997.

A true celebration of everything diversity, passion and talent, Feast Festival has a rich programme ready for two weeks in mid-November. From cabaret and comedy to theatre, music and film, take a look at the event schedule and check out your favourites. 

Tickets are still on sale, but be quick, it’s only a couple of weeks away!

Ashes 2017-18 Second Test Australia vs. England (December 2-6)

Regardless of what happens in the first test at The Gabba in Brisbane, the 2017-18 Ashes series is primed to kick up a notch when the teams play at the revamped Adelaide Oval in early December.

Yes, this is Ashes cricket with a twist – the inaugural day-night test. As the sun begins to set and temperatures drop, the action on the field only continues to heat up under lights, a unique energy usually saved for T20 and ODI cricket. 

With the Barmy Army singing, the Aussie crowd bantering and a steady flow of action, who knows which way this test will go. Australia, with the impressive Steve Smith at the helm, will go in as favourites, but don’t count out a young English team led by new captain Joe Root!

Adelaide Motorsport Festival (December 7-10)

Adelaide may not be home to Australia’s Formula One event anymore, but that doesn’t mean the city has lost its licence for speed! Across three days in December, it’s a petrolhead’s paradise as motorsport takes over Adelaide.

The family-friendly festival at Victoria Park sees around 220 vehicles take to the specially prepared circuit, a section of the original Adelaide Grand Prix track. This includes F1s, Adelaide Rally vehicles, Heritage Touring Cars and Five Litre Touring cars.

Of course, there’s plenty of action away from the track as well. There will be around 300 vehicles on display – ranging from legendary Bathurst cars to rare and collectible models. While you won’t be able to take to the same speeds around Australia, the Adelaide Motorsport Festival should give you your fix of speed!

If you would like more information about travelling around Adelaide or South Australia this spring and summer, get in touch with the friendly team at East Coast Car Rentals – we look forward to hearing from you!