The Most Exciting Winter Festivals In Australia

Combat the cold with the coolest winter festivals in Australia.

Whether you like it or not, winter has officially arrived in Australia. But that doesn’t mean you have to hibernate – winter in Australia is bursting with festivals that celebrate the magic of the cooler months, whether you’re chasing the cold or looking to escape it. From roaring fire pits under fairy light-filled trees to dazzling art installations, live music and gourmet feasts, there’s really no excuse to stay inside. These winter festivals across the country are serving up some serious seasonal charm.

1. Winter Whale Fest, SA

When: 1–30 June

Spot Southern Right Whales this winter in Victor Harbor. (Image: Getty Images/Alexis Fioramonti)

Celebrate the arrival of Southern Right Whales at the Winter Whale Fest in Victor Harbor this year. This magnificent creature can grow anywhere between 14 and 18 metres and has a lifespan of up to 100 years, so witnessing them in the wild is a rare and beautiful sight you won’t want to miss.

The month-long festival isn’t just about welcoming the whales, though. It has been crafted to engage and educate visitors about whale conservation and the marine environment as well. This year, there will be more than 25 events across the Fleurieu Peninsula – one of the best whale watching spots in Australia.

2. After-Dark Truffle Fest, ACT

When: 20 June

Truffles from Beltana Farm in Canberra, ACT — Truffle hunting is a quintessential winter activity. (Image: VisitCanberra)

If you’re after a winter evening that feels straight out of a storybook, the After Dark Truffle Fest at Beltana Farm is calling your name. For one night only, Canberra’s premier truffle experience will light up the night with glowing fairylights, a moonlit barbecue, truffle trees and a cosy fireside feast.

Guests can wander the farm with a glass of wine in hand, learn about the magic of truffle season from onsite farmer Alice and indulge in a cheeky shared menu laced with the gourmet fungi of the night. It’s the ultimate way to welcome (and celebrate) truffle season.

3. Alice Springs Beanie Festival, NT

When: 20–23 June

Alice Springs Beanie Festival in Alice Springs, NT — Purchase a cool and quirky beanie to take home with you.

Come the colder months, beanies are a closet essential. But in Central Australia, the handmade hats are so much more; they’re celebrated as a distinctive regional art form at the Alice Springs Beanie Festival. As well as browsing hundreds of unique beanies, visitors can join a textile workshop or Indigenous beanie-making lesson, too. It’s also a great opportunity to explore this spectacular region and all it has to offer.

4. East Gippsland Winter Festival, Vic

When: 20 June – 20 July

A lantern of a fish floats in the water at Lakes Entrance. (Image: East Gippsland Winter Festival) — Discover regional delights at the month-long East Gippsland Winter Festival. (Image: Scott Kingman)

Experience a truly unique spin on the cold season at the month-long East Gippsland Winter Festival. Running over both the Winter Solstice and Victorian winter school holidays, the program has been curated to rival any winter festival program.

Think musical performances, live ice sculpting, fire-breathing shows, lantern-making workshops, winter feasts, wellness experiences and more. From Benambra to Bemm River, Paynesville to Mallacoota and everywhere in between, winter in Gippsland just got a whole lot more exciting.

5. Ningaloo Sky Festival, WA

When: 27–29 June

Ningaloo Sky Festival, Exmouth WA — Witness the skies above Ningaloo come alive this winter. (Image: Terra Australis)

Delight in the raw beauty of WA’s Coral Coast at the 2025 Ningaloo Sky Festival, a celebration of the region’s natural wonders. Held in the sleepy town of Exmouth, guests are invited to experience a melting pot of cultures, where traditional flavours meet local live music and astronomy talks share the stage with drone shows – all under the blanket of Ningaloo’s breathtaking starscape. It’s the perfect place to escape the winter chill this season.

6. Festival of Voices, Tas

When: 27 June –6 July

Delight in live music performances from a deluge of talent. (Image: Lusy Productions)

It’s time to warm up those vocal cords, folks – the Festival of Voices is back! This state-wide festival is a favourite among Tasmanians who love everything to do with music, for good reason too. The extensive program is full of fantastic events for the musically inclined, like choral workshops, live performances, silent discos and song trivia.

The event that garners the most attention is The Big Sing. The free event actually used to be the only event; it’s how the festival originally began and has since become Tassie’s largest annual sing-along. It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice vocalist or a celebrated singer – everyone is invited to join.

7. Fireside Festival, Vic

When: 27 June – 13 July

Fireside Yarra Valley in Victoria

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.

8. Burning of the Barrel, NSW

When: 28 June

Burning of the Barrel at Glandore Wines, Hunter Valley, NSW

The night culminates in a huge, beautiful bonfire. (Image: Chris Elfes)

Voted one of the top 50 wine events in the world in 2023, the Burning of the Barrel at Glandore Wines is a Hunter Valley stalwart. Set amongst the cellar door’s rolling vineyards and backdropped by stunning mountains, the event is all about good wine and great company.

To celebrate winter and the harvest season, Glandore brings live jazz music, delicious food and all-around cosy vibes directly to its guests, so you have no excuse not to join in the fun. The evening culminates in a spectacular bonfire and fireworks display, often cited as the night’s highlight.

9. Bicheno Beams, Tas

When: 28 June – 19 July

Bicheno Beams Festival in Tasmania — Watch the sky come to life at Bicheno Beams. (Image: Adam Reibel)

The skies of Tasmania’s east coast will come alive with magnificent crisscrossing beams of light this July, all in the name of Bicheno Beams. The world-class laser light show brings a kaleidoscope of colour to the town, 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, with free entry from 6 pm.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

10. Illuminate Adelaide, SA

When: 2–20 July

Illuminate Adelaide in South Australia — Witness art, music and technology collide. (Image: Illuminate Adelaide, Tyr Liang Xplorer Studio)

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.

11. Christmas in July, ACT

When: 3–6 July

Christmas in July winter market in Canberra — Sip mulled wine and collect Christmas trinkets at the market.

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 annual Christkindelsmärik (Christmas market) in Strasbourg, France.

Exploring artisan markets, enjoying live music, sampling boozy hot chocolate and taking part in Christmas carols are all part and parcel here. Just don’t miss a wander down Snow Lane, where you can roast marshmallows over an open fire surrounded by real Christmas trees and faux snow.

12. Winter Wonderlights, Vic

When: 4–27 July

Winter Wonderlights in Ballarat, Vic — Watch the (faux) snow fall against illuminated backdrops. (Image: Anthony Evans)

Experience a winter wonderland in July at Winter Wonderlights, part of the 2025 Ballarat Winter Festival. The historic open-air museum of Sovereign Hill comes alive with stunning light projections, completed with snow (albeit fake), music and warming winter treats.

The three-week winter festival program is brimming with more exciting things to do. Think workshops, live shows, entertainment, family-friendly activities and plenty of food and drink stalls to keep you fuelled. It’s an event the whole family can enjoy, just don’t forget to rug up!

13. National Indigenous Art Fair, NSW

When: 5–6 July

National Indigenous Art Fair in Sydney, NSW — Browse stalls touting authentic Indigenous art. (Image: Paul McMillan)

Launching at the start of NAIDOC Week 2025, the National Indigenous Art Fair will again take over Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal to platform Indigenous artists for its sixth year running. After browsing stalls touting everything from original paintings and textiles to jewellery and homewares, take part in an informative talk, demonstration, tasting or workshop. All proceeds go directly back into the remote communities, centres and artists in attendance.

14. Birdsville Big Red Bash, Qld

When: 8–9 July

A sign says welcome to the Birdsville Big Red Bash. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland) — The Birdsville Big Red Bash is the world’s most remote music festival. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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).

15. Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, Qld

When: 10–13 July

Dancers performing at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair — Witness incredible cultural performances at CIAF.

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.

16. Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival, Tas

When: 12, 19 & 26 July

Big Willie Burns at Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival in tasmania

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.

17. Jumpers and Jazz in July, Qld

When: 17–27 July

Jumpers and Jazz in July is a quirky and colourful festival that takes place over crisp, sunny winter days in the south east Queensland town of Warwick. It’s a feast of groovy jazz music, local art and the quirky act of yarn bombing, where every tree in town is dressed up for the occasion. Wander the streets of Warwick to discover tree trunks outfitted in yarn patterns and crocheted decorations hanging from branches.

More than 100 contributors – everyone from budding crocheters to seasoned knitters – will colour the town with creations. Over 10 jam-packed days, guests can enjoy exhibitions, workshops, markets, live performances, guided tours and more.

18. Cabin Fever, WA

When: 18–27 July

Drag queen at Cabin Fever Wine's a Drag event

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.

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19. Winter Reds, SA

When: 25–27 July

Red wine on table at Winter Reds festival event in Adelaide — Sample the region’s best red wines. (Image: Duy Dash)

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!

20. The Curated Plate, Qld

When: 25 July – 3 August

The Tamarind’s grilled Hervey Bay scallops and oysters — Dive into fresh seafood as part of The Curated Plate.

Escape to the warmth of Queensland and savour the bounty of its food bowl at The Curated Plate, a series of 30 food-focused events designed to guide you through the paddock-to-plate journey. Over 10 delicious days, you’ll meet the makers at local markets, tour farms growing the state’s best produce, and get hands-on at cooking classes. Exclusive dining experiences will also transform the region’s bounty into dishes that will linger on the palate long after your plate has been cleared.

21. Bleach* Festival, Qld

When: 31 July – 10 August

Skywhales by Patricia Piccinnini — Witness Patricia Piccinnini’s Skywhales at Bleach* this year.

Now in its 14th year, Bleach* Festival is an annual contemporary arts festival on the glorious Gold Coast. Attracting over 400 Australian and international creatives, it’s the perfect place for the artistic and imaginative to meet and share ideas.

This year, the program features an incredible line-up of music, dance, theatre and art installations, all under the creative direction of acclaimed artist Michael Zavros. Bleach* will be held at three festival hubs: Emerald Lakes, Kurrawa Park and HOTA (Home of the Arts).

22. Winter Shiraz Festival, Vic

When: 1–3 August

Winter Shiraz Festival in Geelong, Victoria — Gather your crew and toast to winter with a glass of shiraz.

What better time to celebrate a soul-warming, full-bodied shiraz than winter? Geelong, home to Australia’s 2025 winery of the year, is taking advantage of this perfect combination with the aptly named Winter Shiraz Festival. Expect everything from tastings and masterclasses by local vintners to live music and hearty winter fare made from local produce, all to celebrate the region’s tantalising rendition of this popular grape variety.

23. Garma Festival, NT

When: 1–4 August

Garma Festival in East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory — Celebrate Yolŋu culture at Garma. (Image: Melanie Faith Dove)

Another incredible Top End celebration – the annual Garma Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this winter. The Yothu Yindi Foundation brings East Arnhem Land to life with an edifying program that expresses and shares Yolŋu life and culture. The four-day event invites people from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the power of storytelling, miny’tji (art), manikay (song), bunggul (dance) and more.

24. Orange Region Fire Festival, NSW

When: 1–10 August

Orange Winter Fire Festival in Orange, NSW — Cosy up by the fire and listen to local talents.

When your parents told you not to play with fire, what they actually meant was… let someone else do it for you! This August, the Orange Region Fire Festival will showcase exactly why this region is one of the top contenders for a weekend getaway this winter.

Maybe you’ll opt to enjoy a delicious meal paired with premium wines? Or huddling up next to a fire pit to enjoy live music? Whatever you choose, producers are really turning up the heat in 2025, so expect some truly unique experiences that will have you counting down until the next one.

25. Darwin Festival, NT

When: 7–24 August

Darwin Festival in NT — Enjoy magical live performances at Darwin Festival. (Image: Tourism NT/jack.and.megan)

Not a fan of the cold? We get it. Head up to the Top End to enjoy balmy nights under twinkling skies at Darwin Festival. Known as Australia’s hottest winter arts festival, it combines the quintessential energy of Darwin with outdoor festivities and a vibrant program of events for an unforgettably good time. In 2025, get ready for 18 days of music, theatre, dance, cabaret, comedy and family fun, from theatre shows and free gigs to buzzing bars and local food vendors.

26. Beaker Street Festival, Tas

When: 12–19 August

Browse through art installations and exhibitions at the Beaker Street Festival. (Image: Fred + Hannah/Beaker Street)

A grand celebration of science and art, Beaker Street Festival is returning to the streets of Hobart for what is sure to be another amazing year. A meeting place for curious minds, the festival gives attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the art and science of everyday life.

The 2025 program will include over 70 exciting events, from deep discussions and art exhibitions to guided walks and wild adventures, all backdropped by Tassie’s wintry and rugged landscape. Don’t miss the chance to join an aurora australis tour – Tassie is one of the best places to spot the natural phenomenon!

27. Wines of the West, NSW

When: 16–17 August

Dryridge Estate is just one of the local wineries participating.

Oenophiles, save the date! Wines of the West is taking over The Carrington in the Blue Mountains’ town of Katoomba. Guests will be able to sample wines from local cellar doors across the Central West and Blue Mountains regions, from Orange and Bathurst to Mudgee and the Megalong Valley. As well as tasting top drops, you’ll be able to chat directly with winemakers and even buy your favourite bottle (or two) to take home.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.