Australia is known to be a country where things are a little different, but when it comes to celebrations and festivals, they are a plenty. Every month is filled with events and activities that will have any visitor fighting to choose what to do first. From the first day of the month to the last, there is always something to do in Australia. For your next trip down under, let us help arrange your flight with Australia Jet Charter so you can experience something a little different for yourself.
May 2015
(May 1st – 31st, 2015)
All across the country (except the northern territory), Australians take part in the 4th year of a month-long celebration of Australian wines. There will be about 100 events dedicated to the tasting and promotion of the world’s best wines. Over 60 regions of wine are said to be featured at these events where everyone is celebrating a medley of taste. There will also be several competitions going on throughout the month.
(May 13th – 16th, 2015; Australian Capital Territory)
The fashions of Australian locals and international designers are showcased for four nights in May at FashFest. More than 30 designers will launch their newest collections to be modeled on the catwalk to the tunes of live musicians and DJ performances. If you have a love for fashion, you won’t want to miss this exciting debut. If you work in the industry, this is the biggest business venture for those in the world of fashion.
(May 14th – 17th, 2015; Queensland)
Are you a foodie of the world? If so, you should head to the town of Noosa for the Noosa International Food and Wine Festival in Queensland, Australia. Over 200 internal and national chefs, winemakers, and restaurateurs leading the industries will take over Noosa for four days to strut their stuff. There will be cooking demonstrations, lifestyle lunches, wine tasting, culinary exhibitions, and more.
(May 23rd, 2015; Northern Territory)
In the Northern Territory, the “Bass in the Grass” is the largest music festival. Held in Darwin, the event has big acts and well known artists, performing everything from indie music to hip hop. Here is a list of some of the performers:
Birds of Tokyo
Champagne with Mary Jane
Flight Facilities
Hilltop Hoods
Illy
Jarrod and Prayer
Kid Mac
Kingswood
Sarah Howells
Sheppard
Taylor Henderson
The Preatures
Thundamentals
And More…
(May 28th – June 7th, 2015; Victoria)
In late May, Victoria, Australia blows up with an international Jazz Festival in Melbourne. More than 300 musicians will be performing the smooth sounds of jazz over the course of the week. There will also be more than 100 events; the entire program includes film screenings, free concerts, late-night parties, and events for the whole family.
(May 29th – June 8th, 2015; Queensland)
In the mood for a little nostalgia? Australia’s biggest 50’s and 60’s music festival is coming to Queensland in late May. Not only will there be bands playing music from decades past, but there will also be over 1000 classic cars, vintage-styled food, and hundreds of retro and craft vendors. Every year, over 100,000 people attend the event, and each year the festival gets bigger and better. Come see this spectacular festival for yourself.
(May 29th – 31st, 2015; Western Australia)
This May, in Western Australia, Jazz is hitting the city of Busselton. Local, national, and international jazz musicians and celebrities will be performing at a variety of venues throughout the city. The performers listed so far are as follows:
Adam Hall and the Velvet Playboys
Ali Bodycoat Quartet
Cathrine Summers
The Catz Meow
Charlie Moon Meader
Charmaine Clements Trio
Garry Lee Trio with Danny Moss Jnr
Holli Scott
J4A – Jazz For All with Libby Hammer & Band
Jazztrix Octet
Libby Hammer Quartet
Local Vintage Swing Band
Marilyn Keller
Odette Mercy & Her Soul Atomics
Powerhouse Jazz Band
Quartet
Soul Survivors
Sussane Siegrist
Vollbrecht/Matsuno
June 2015
(June 5th – 7th, 2015; North Queensland)
In North Queensland, the Charters Towers Showgrounds will be hosting a two-day car show with attractions for the whole family. More than 3000 people come to the show every year. Enthusiasts, individuals, and families from all around attend the show; there is a large area dedicated to kid’s entertainment, and a live band will be playing throughout the show. Moreover, there are campgrounds open to entrants, free of charge. All kinds of vehicles are put on for show, from old vintage cars to hot rods and classic motor vehicles. There will also be several competitions for big prize money and trophies.
(June 12th – 22nd, 2015; Tasmania)
How about something a little darker for once? The Dark Mofo event in Tasmania is a magnificent festival in Tasmania, Australia, filled with large-scale public art, food, and music. Known for its annual masquarade Red Death Ball, the event sells out quick. There will be an array of events for those under 18 years of age, and those older. You may find yourself doing something a little unexpected once the night sets in on Dark Mofo.
(June 12th – 15th, 2015; Melbourne)
One of the leading events related to boats and the maritime industry is coming to Melbourne, Australia this year. Many exhibitors will be showcasing their products and services, from jet skis to motor boats, sailboats, and yachts will be on show, as well as other nautical items. This is a great chance for businesses to expand and work with international companies in boating and learn about the latest in nautical technology. This is one major attraction for everyone be they beginners to boating or those looking for a little adventure, too.
July 2015
(All Month; Queensland)
Australia has many festivals for wine lovers and foodies, and the month of July is packed with foodie fun. All month, food lovers get the chance to explore some of the best restaurants of Brisbane and the surrounding area, as well as cafes and bars. For those with late-night munchies, there are also Night Noodle Markets all-month long.
(July 3rd – 12th, 2015; Tasmania)
For a week in July, the voices of choral music and gospel come together, along with a capella and other forms of melody. The Festival of Voices celebrates the human voice and the music it can perform. Many renowned artists tend to perform at the festival, and many choristers lead the crowd to fill the night with a wonderful sound. If you have a choir of your own, there’s still time to sign up.
(July 12th, 2015; Northern Territory)
Think you’ve seen all regatta races? Think again. In Australia, they have a race where all of the boats are made from beer cans. It’s a spectacular spectacle to see how long some of these boats last, and you may be surprised to see which ones make it to the finish line. Throughout the day, there will be food and craft stalls during the race, and it’s a great time for companies to get a high profile presence.
(June 21st – Late August, 2015; Australian Capital Territory)
You haven’t tasted truffles if you haven’t been to Australia’s Truffle Festival. This 8-week celebration boasts the truffles of the region, and over 60 venues offer attendees to taste their truffles, along with gourmet dinners and pastries. During the 8-week event, there will also be cooking classes, wine tastings, farmers markets, and more. Last year, more than 300 events spanned across the 200 km area for the festival.
(July 31st – August 2nd, 2015; Queensland)
The premier art fair in Queensland is the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair. For several days, art exhibitions are set up for show, whilst Islander art, dance, and music are celebrated. Commercial art galleries and centers sell artwork to the public, and other special events such as artist talks and outdoor concerts take place.
(July 30th – August 3rd, 2015; Sydney)
In late July, come to Sydney, Australia to experience a boat show that’s been going on for nearly 50 years. Every year, over 300 million people attend the boat show to network with maritime experts, be educated and entertained, and enjoy the performances and exhibits at the boat show. There will be boat displays, fashion parades, and guest speakers discussing boating and fun on the water. Plus, over 200 businesses will be there, a great way to connect with the men and women of maritime brands.
(July 31st – August 8th, 2015; Queensland)
At the end of July, the people of Queensland get together for a music festival as the nights start to turn into a tropical winter mood. Locals and visitors from all around gather in Queensland for this festival, for an opportunity to hear and meet the international musicians that give the Chamber of Music its global reputation. Below is the list of performing artists:
1Rar Band
Australian Brass Quintet
Barrier Reef Orchestra
Bejamin Martin
Camerata of St John’s
David Selig
Goldner String Quarter
Neal Peres Da Costa
Orva String Quartet
Piers Lane
Piotr Anderszewski
Tamara-Anna Cislowska
…And Many More!
August 2015
(August 6th – 23rd, 2015; Northern Territory)
The Darwin festival is packed with entertainment this year, usually drawing about 100,000 people every year to Australia. A multitude of programs are featured, such as dance music, outdoor concerts, theater performances, comedy, and more. The colorful and vibrant atmosphere can raise the spirits of anyone who attends or gets involved in the festival. Don’t miss out on one of the biggest events in Australia this year.
(August 9th, 2015; New South Wales)
Every year in New South Wales, over 80,000 people race, run, or walk a 14 km course that finishes at Bondi Beach. Many people do it for sport, but many others run to raise money for charity. There are many different groups running the course, and the people of NSW really get into it, sometimes dawning body paint for the span of the race.
(August 15th – 22nd, 2015; Queensland)
This yacht race is one of Australia’s favorites, nailing it’s place on the international sailing calendar. Competitors, friends, and family gather to watch boaters from around the world compete. Not only this, but many boaters and yacht enthusiasts live aboard their yachts and around the marina during the week of the race. There are events on and off the water, especially for land lovers who want to spectate while enjoying gourmet meals, fashion shows, and wine tastings.
(August 22nd – 23rd, 2015; Far North Queensland)
This August, the Cairns Auto Show will showcase the best cars and bikes for two days on the Cairns Showgrounds. Everything from hot rods to muscle cars, this show has it all on display for car lovers to enjoy. Motoring entertainment can be found here, and there’s a little something for everyone, from the enthusiast to the family man. Plus, if you have yourself a street machine, you’ll be given the chance to really test what your car can do.
September 2015
(All Month; Western Australia)
One of the longest-running traditions in Western Australia is the Kings Park Festival. It all started as a five-day event, celebrating the springtime. Now, it lasts all month, with floral displays, live music entertainment, exhibitions, workshops, and many more activities for the whole family. Around 600,00 people from all over the world attend this event every year, spellbound by the magic of nature.
(September 6th – 27th, 2015; Queensland)
During the month of September, over 400 productions and performances hit Queensland, Australia. The festival features many projects, art installations, music, dance, and more. There are many hubs, bars, and hangouts to visit whilst enjoying the exciting atmosphere of a one-of-a-kind event mixing all kinds of art together.
(September 11th – 13th, 2015; Sydney)
At the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Center, the 2015 Australian Dance Festival kicks off in September this year. There will be a schedule of events and workshops going on throughout the weekend, and performances by several dance crews. Plus, if you think you have what it takes, there is a chance to audition and compete in the “Dance Around the World Solo Competition.”
(September 12th – October 11th, 2015; Australian Capital Territory)
During the day, or at night, you can attend a spring festival with over one million flowers in bloom. Enjoy the vibrant display of color during the day, or at night, watch the flowers bloom whilst illuminated by a light and sound display. There will also be live music performances and entertainment by comedians and Djs for nightly events.
(September 23rd – October 4th, 2015; South Australia)
This two-week event celebrates Asian heritage in Australia with theater, dance, music, and more. Experience authentic food and watch some of the entertainment while enjoying the the festival with family and friends. The most anticipated event is the Moon Lantern Festival held on the 27th of September. It’s quite the sight to catch if you’re lucky enough to be there as sky lanterns are released into the sky.
(September 16rd – October 4th, 2015; Victoria)
Back and better than before, the Melbourne Fringe Festival has been extended for even more events and performances than last year. Thousands of artists show up, and hundreds of shows are put on, from comedy acts to theater performances, and from circus to dance. The variety of shows is like none other, there’s something for everyone here.
October 2015
(All Month; NSW, ACT, Queensland)
All of October, the best chefs and restaurants invite you to try their dishes in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, and Perth. There are over 500 events going on throughout the month, featuring wine experts and food artisans, and plenty of food. This is the largest food festival in Australia, and it’s a chance for foodies to get their fill of some of the best the nation has to offer.
(October 8th – 11th, 2015; New South Wales)
This legendary race in Australia has thousands of fans making their way to Mount Panorama to watch the action. V8 Supercars are the featured attraction as they race around the track for four days of competition. Enjoy the entertainment of a 1000 km race around the mountainous track, and cheer on the racers in a heart-stopping atmosphere.
(October 18th – 25th, 2015; Victoria)
One of the world’s leading art festivals comes to Victoria, Australia this year, in a celebration of art and culture. Watch performances of theater, dance, film, music, and a lot more. No event can compare to what you’ll find at the Melbourne Festival. Entertainers and artists from all around the world gather in Melbourne each year for this festival.
(October 22nd – November 8th, 2015; New South Wales)
This unique event brings out some of the biggest and quirkiest artworks to life by the Sea on Bondi Beach. More than 100 sculptures are set up by Australian artists, giving spectators along the coast quite the sight for two weeks. You’ll see fascinating sculptures and pieces of art, many of which are for sale for the collector with a keen eye for a masterpiece.
(October 31st – November 7th, 2015; Victoria)
One of the classiest races of the year, the people of Melbourne put on their suits and dresses when attending this four day race. It’s one of Australia’s most popular sporting events, and many people gather round to socialize and enjoy the race. Even more so, many people are looking towards the Emirates Melbourne Cup, held every year on the first Tuesday in November. It’s such a sought after event, it’s known as “the race that stops a nation.”
November 2015
(November 6th – 8th, 2015; Queensland)
This event is very popular amongst the folks of Queensland, and it’s coming back for another year. Dozens of leading boat dealers will be attending the event, as well as vendors for fishing equipment, outdoor gear, and associated products and services. There is plenty of time to register if you would like to become an exhibitor, or if you just want to make plans to attend the event. The Sunshine Coast Boating Expo will be hosted at the Kawana Sports Precinct in 2015.
(November 14th, 2015; Southern Australia)
Celebrating Christmas a little earlier, South Australia has a Christmas Pageant with more than 50 festive and fairy tale floats filling the streets. The entire parade has marching bands, dancing groups, and over 100 clowns amongst the floats. Every year, more than 300,000 people come to watch the largest pageant in Australia for the holidays.
(November 19th – 22nd, 2015; Southern Australia)
Something a little different, Australia also has a 3-day equestrian event. Each day is dedicated to another event: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. If you’re a fan of horses, you may get a kick out of the outfits horses and their owners wear around the field. However, the cross-country race and show jumps are the more entertaining events, especially with the beautifully designed courses that prove to be daring obstacles to overcome.
(November 20th – 23rd, 2015; Victoria)
The Australian Masters golf tournament attracts some of the best golfers to this international event. Golfers around the world come to Australia to compete for the trophy, prize money, and for the title of BetEasy Master. The winner is also presented with a gold jacket, a notable tradition in Australian golf.
(November 20th – 22nd, 2015; Western Australia)
Australia has many events for the foodies, but this one kicks it up with the quality vineyards it brings to the table. Hosted by top international and local chefs, and food and wine critics, this event makes its mark. There will be many events during the program, some of which showcase the best wine and produce around Western Australia.
(November 15th – 30th, 2015; Southern Australia)
The Australian Feast Festival is one of the most unique events in the southern hemisphere. Despite the name, the festival events are focused on theater, cabaret, visual arts, and other artistic celebrations. It’s the leading festival that celebrates the homosexual community of Australia, hosting their art and culture with two weeks full of fun and entertainment.
December 2015
(December 26th, 2015; New South Wales and Tasmania)
In the Summer of Australia, boaters take to the sea in a well-known yacht race. Starting in Sydney and finishing in Hobart, this is a 630 nautical mile race that attracts yacht racers from around the world. The course sails past some of the most beautiful landscapes of Australia, and the race can quickly become as dangerous as it is exciting. Part of the course crosses the Bass Strait, where shallow waters and strong winds will test the tactical skills of the yachtsmen if they wish to finish the race.
(December 31st, 2015; All Over)
Australians bring in the New Year like the rest of the world, with national parties and fireworks. For those on the western hemisphere, it might seem a little odd to celebrate the New Year in the Summer, but on the eastern hemisphere, it’s a perfect time to go out and party as the New Year begins. One of the best places to catch the fireworks display is the Sydney Harbour, but everyone has their favorite spot around the nation.
(December 6th, 2015; All Over)
The Largest Short Film Festival in the world, Tropfest brings in thousands of people to watch short films by emerging Australian film-makers. The experience is completely free, and is set up around various outdoor locations across the country. It all began in 1993 in a Sydney cafe, and has since then grown into a spectacular event televised from Sydeny’s Centennial Park.