Don’t hibernate this winter – beat the winter blues in true Australian style by making your way to one of the outstanding festivals taking place on the east coast over the colder months.
1. Dark Mofo June 8-21
This festival is as curious as it sounds. It started in the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart and takes a very creative approach to banishing winter gloominess. Art installations involving fire and mental asylums, pagan rituals and late night clubs are just a few of the things that make sure festival attendees are never bored.
If this all sounds very intriguing, you’ll just have to join Tasmanians at the festival this winter to find out what it’s all about.
May 1, 2017 at 5:12am PDT
2. Adelaide Cabaret Festival June, 22-23
One of the most fun arts events all year, this festival brings together classic and contemporary cabaret performances from local and international artists. Now in its 17th year, the festival is renowned for its eclectic program and the good times had by all.
Apr 4, 2017 at 4:30pm PDT
3. Bondi Winter Magic, June 2017
Who said beach bums can’t embrace winter? This unique event gives you a chance to strap on your skates and zip around an ice rink just metres from the ocean. Over winter, whales and dolphins are cruising up and down the coast, so you might even spot them leaping from the waves as you swing around the ice!
As well as ice skating, there are buskers keeping Bondi’s spirits up, street art exhibitions and food and drink deals to satisfy hungry skaters.
4. Splendour in the Grass, July 21-23
This is Australia’s biggest winter festival, drawing both acts and festival-goers from all over the world. The festival has been held in Byron Bay since 2001, and this year is set to be one of the biggest line-ups yet. The xx, Queens of the Stone Age and LCD Soundsystem are just a few of the big names on the festival posters.
Apr 1, 2017 at 2:46pm PDT
5. Noosa Long Weekend Festival, July 21-30
Noosa knows how to have a good time – this festival lasts for 10 days and nights, and each one is crammed full of music, theatre and food. The comprehensive program means there is something for everyone to enjoy with everything from cabaret to dance, film and literature. There are even some free events for anyone who wants to absorb some art and culture on a budget!
As an added bonus, Noosa is one of the most beautiful destinations in Queensland – this festival is a great excuse to visit!
Apr 4, 2017 at 5:05am PDT
6. Winter Reds Weekend, July 28-30
If your favourite way to warm up over winter is to settle into a comfy chair by a log fire, a glass of red wine in your hand, this festival is for you. The Winter Reds Cellar Door Weekend is the ideal opportunity to embrace the season and sample some of Adelaide’s best wines at the same time. More than 30 wineries in the Adelaide Hills region will be inviting guests in to warm up and sample some of their best vintages. Don’t miss the chance to find out the perfect red to pair with a wood-fired pizza.
Make sure you have a sober driver to escort you around the wineries if you plan on participating in this event. If you’re the designated driver, you can look forward to a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage at participating venues!
Jul 2, 2016 at 12:31pm PDT
Half the fun of these festivals is getting there. Get the party started by hiring a car and setting off an an epic winter road trip!