South Australia, often lovingly referred to as Australia’s "Festival State," is renowned not just for its vibrant culture and excellent wine but also for hosting an array of diverse events that cater to all tastes. The peak season in Adelaide is often referred to as ‘Mad March’ where the whole city is electric with atmosphere, however, you will find events and festivals creating excitement all year-round. Whether you're an art lover, a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or just looking to soak up some local culture, South Australia’s calendar is packed with events that make it an enthralling destination.
Major Arts and Cultural Festivals
Adelaide Fringe - February to March
The Adelaide Fringe is a magical, city-wide celebration of the arts. As the Southern Hemisphere's largest open-access arts festival, it offers everything from street performances to cabaret, comedy, and circus, making the city buzz with creativity and excitement.
Adelaide Festival – March
As one of Australia’s flagship arts festivals, Adelaide Festival presents a world-class program of theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. Held annually in March, this event transforms the city into a cultural hotspot, attracting artists and audiences from around the globe.
WOMADelaide – March
This festival is a feast for the senses, showcasing an eclectic mix of music, dance, and voice from around the world. Set in the beautiful Botanic Park, WOMADelaide is an essential stop for cultural enthusiasts exploring Adelaide in March.
Adelaide Literary Festival – March
Often held concurrently with the Adelaide Festival, this gathering is a bibliophile’s dream. It features readings, debates, and book signings by renowned international and Australian authors, making it a significant event in the literary calendar.
Illuminate Adelaide – July
Winter in Adelaide lights up with Illuminate Adelaide, a city-wide celebration of innovation, music, art, and light. With immersive art installations and illuminations, the festival offers unique experiences that transform the night into a wonderland of exploration.
SALA Festival – August
SALA, or South Australian Living Artists Festival, is a state-wide festival celebrating the visual arts. It offers a great platform for local artists to display their works in galleries and various unconventional spaces across Adelaide.
OzAsia Festival - October to November
OzAsia Festival leads the way in presenting Asia’s rich arts and cultural heritage combined with contributions from Australian artists. This festival includes a range of performances from theatre to dance and music, along with a celebrated Moon Lantern Parade.
Adelaide Cabaret Festival – June
Experience the world's largest cabaret festival in Adelaide, featuring an incredible lineup of international and Australian artists. This festival brings together a mix of classic and contemporary cabaret performances.
Culinary and Wine Events
Tasting Australia - April to MayTasting Australia is an epicurean delight, showcasing the best of South Australian food and wine. Culinary stars and wine experts gather to celebrate the state’s produce through a series of tastings, workshops, and dinners.
Barossa Vintage Festival – April
Delve into the heart of Australian wine culture with the Barossa Vintage Festival, which features events ranging from gourmet dinners to wine tastings and historical tours through the beautiful Barossa Valley.
Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend – May
Explore the scenic Clare Valley during its Gourmet Weekend, where wineries and local producers showcase their finest wines and culinary treats in a festive atmosphere.
Winter Reds – July
The Winter Reds Weekend invites visitors to warm up in the Adelaide Hills, where wineries open their cellars for tastings of premium red wines paired with hearty winter cuisine.
Adelaide Beer & BBQ Festival – July
Beer enthusiasts and BBQ aficionados will love this festival that combines craft beers from around the world with mouth-watering barbecue cooked by top chefs and pitmasters.
Sporting Events
Santos Tour Down Under – January
This premier cycling event attracts top international cyclists and fans to Adelaide and its picturesque surroundings, featuring challenging routes and community cycling events.
Adelaide International – January
Kick off the tennis season with the Adelaide International. This ATP and WTA event attracts top global tennis talents, serving as an exciting lead-up to the Australian Open.
VAILO Adelaide 500 - February to March
Thrill-seekers and motorsports fans can experience the adrenaline of the VALILO Adelaide 500, one of Australia’s premier motorsport events, featuring top-tier Supercars and a host of entertainment options.
LIV Golf Adelaide – April
Adelaide has joined the innovative LIV Golf series, hosting top international golfers in a new, exciting format that’s reshaping the golfing landscape.
Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival – April (Easter)
Experience traditional charm with horse racing, family activities, and local food at one of Australia’s most loved rural racing events.
Community and Seasonal Celebrations
Royal Adelaide Show – September
The Royal Adelaide Show is a highlight of the local calendar, featuring agricultural shows, exciting rides, and delicious food, drawing families and visitors from all over the state.
Adelaide Christmas Pageant – November
The festive season in Adelaide kicks off with the Christmas Pageant, a spectacular parade that fills the streets with colourful floats, bands, and a festive atmosphere that delights all ages.
Unique Local Events
Port Lincoln Tunarama Festival – January
Witness the unique '‘tuna toss'’ competition and enjoy local seafood at this festival celebrating the fishing community of Port Lincoln.
Cuttlefest – June to August
Marvel at the natural spectacle of thousands of giant cuttlefish gathering to breed in the shallow coastal waters of Whyalla. This globally unique phenomenon offers an amazing snorkelling and diving experience to view the giant semi-translucent molluscs up close.
Adelaide’s event calendar is a vibrant and dynamic testament to the city’s lively cultural scene, offering something for everyone throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about what this festive city has to offer, Adelaide’s events are sure to enrich your experience.
To find your way to the action with our amazing selection of South Australian Escapes, click here, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
Images courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission
