What’s On In Oz This March

Get ready for a big month, because March is absolutely packed full of amazing events.

This month, there are some spectacular events across the country popping up and inviting you to pop in. It seems March is the month of festivals, with multiple happening across each state, celebrating everything from food and wine to film and music. Check out our comprehensive guide covering what’s on in your state to help build your March itinerary.

NSW | VIC | QLD | TAS | WA | SA | NT | ACT

NSW

MADAMA BUTTERFLY
SYDNEY HARBOUR
24 MARCH – 23 APRIL

The critically acclaimed and wildly popular production of Madama Butterfly is returning to the Handa Opera on the Sydney Harbour stage at Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquarie’s Point. Raise a glass with friends and enjoy a bite at one of the pop-up bars or restaurants as the sun sets.

Then take your seat among a bamboo grove with a giant moon and rising sun floating overhead as night falls to witness Puccini’s intimate ode to unrequited love. Sydney Harbour is the picture-perfect backdrop, with a dazzling fireworks display every night. Tickets are on sale now; book four A-reserve tickets to any Sunday to Thursday performance and save.

WINE MACHINE
HUNTER VALLEY
18 MARCH

If you’re into delicious food, good wine and having a boogie to live music in the sun, look no further than Wine Machine. The festival celebrates both the splendour of Australia’s best wine regions and music artists born on Aussie soil.

This year, the line-up for the Hunter Valley leg of the festival features all-out acts such as Bliss N Eso, Hot Dub Time Machine, Lime Cordiale and The Poof Doof Drag Jamboree. Described as a garden picnic by day and a dance party by night, tickets are on sale now.

FIELD TO FOREST FESTIVAL
OBERON
18 MARCH – 15 APRIL

Put your foragers cap on and head to Oberon for the Field to Forest Festival, which invites you to indulge in over 10 tasty paddock-to-plate events. Experience a Winemakers and Distillers Tour, a performance dinner with local foodies and farmers, plus mushroom foraging tours and workshops.

Other local participants include Lowes Mount Truffles, Vale Creek Wines and Olives, Mayfield Garden Cafe, Rockley Pub, Casey’s Vineyard and Down to Earth Produce. The festival occurs during the turn of the seasons, with stark and vibrant autumn colours expected to wow visitors.

EAT FESTIVAL
MERIMBULA
9–12 MARCH

Halfway between Melbourne and Sydney, you’ll find the picturesque town of Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast, home to the Eat Festival for 10 years. It’s the perfect spot for a foodie fest; you’re surrounded on all sides by ocean, bushland and lakes. Over four days, Eat Festival showcases the best of the regions with everything from fresh seafood, local wines and beer to restaurants, cafes and baked goods.

In the lead-up to the last day, visitors can experience smaller, tailored events like a three chefs dinner and long-table lunch. The market will be on the fourth and final day. With a focus on boosting stallholders and supporting local restaurants, you’ll be giving back to a community that’s sharing their treats and tips with you; it’s a win-win. If you’re in town early, don’t miss the South Coast BevFest on 4 March.

COASTTREK TWILIGHT
SYDNEY
24 MARCH

Keen for a girls’ night out without the hangover to match? Gather the girls and sign up for the Twilight 20km hosted by Coastrek, Australia’s iconic hiking challenge for women. Starting along the golden sands of Long Reef Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, trek along the coastline with your girl gang all the way to Balgowlah Heights.

Bright tutus, glo sticks, glitter, neon tights and music will get you dancing and inject a little fun into your fitness. Those who have registered can meet at Long Reef RSL for a 5 pm start.

FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE
CAPERTEE VALLEY
17–19 MARCH

Hosted by the award-winning Belle Bois, this ultimate food and wine experience in the Capertee Valley is unmissable. For two days only, farms in the area will open their gates to show guests how they manage their land and produce everything from honey and truffles to lamb, beef and garlic. Guests will stay at Belle Bois, an elegant country house with views across the landscape.

In nearby Rylstone, guests will also meet a micro-farmer producing edible flowers and visit French-style winemakers, De Beaurepaire Wines. The signature Vigneron Experience will see guests explore from grape to glass at the 55-hectare vineyard and historic cellar door. This all-inclusive experience features amazing feasts, a luxury-style stay, premium wines and farmland experiences not accessible to the general public. Bookings are open now.

EQUINOX FESTIVAL
BLUE MOUNTAINS
10 MARCH – 2 APRIL

As the sun crosses the celestial equator giving day and night equal reign, Equinox – A Festival of the Senses begins its four-weekend festivities. Expect free and ticketed events across a range of stunning locations in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains.

A massive highlight of the event is that it includes numerous culinary experiences at a variety of local restaurants such as Boiler House at Hydro Majestic, one of the best restaurants in the Blue Mountains. Also on the cards are Sunset Sessions at Echo Point, walking tours, a Ghost Bus Tour, an antique fair and the Equinox Masquerade Ball at The Carrington, Katoomba.

PERFECT LIGHT FILM FESTIVAL
BROKEN HILL
24–26 MARCH

On the border of NSW and South Australia is the small but mighty outback town of Broken Hill, which is set to host the Perfect Light Film Festival, founded in 2011. The short-film festival showcases local films, judged by a panel of celebrity guests for a cash prize.

Entry to the event is free, however, tickets are required for entry. Food trucks, workshops and market vendors will keep you satisfied between films. This well-loved community event is perfect for families, groups of friends and budding filmmakers.

ART TRAIL
GRAFTON
ENDS 31 MARCH

Known around Australia for its blooming Jacaranda season, there’s more to Grafton than purple flowers and themed markets. Explore and uncover this Northern Rivers town through the eyes of local artists with the Grafton Art Trail.

Until the end of March, reproductions of stunning artworks from the Grafton Regional Gallery collection will be on display posters along Prince Street. The Art Trail is part of the Rediscover Grafton project, delivered by the Clarence Valley Council to help bring more people to the town and support local businesses.

THE EXORCIST
PARRAMATTA GAOL
11 MARCH

Calling all creatures of the night – for one night only this March, Haus of Horror is hosting the spookiest event of the season, including screening of The Exorcist, inside the walls of abandoned Parramatta Gaol from 6 pm to 10 pm. Upon arrival, attendees have two hours to explore the morgue, showers and cell blocks of the gaol, enjoy drinks, feast on food and dance to the live DJ, with an interactive photo booth available, set up as a scene from the film.

At 8 pm, The Exorcist will be screened under the stars on a grassy field inside the Gaol, picnic-style. There will be bar facilities and food vendors onsite, with BYO blankets, pillows, chairs and maybe your favourite comfort teddy. Seating is on a first-come-first-served basis. Tickets are on sale now, with prices ranging from $39 for general admission or $59 to get a bean bag upon arrival.

VIC

BEGONIA FESTIVAL
BALLARAT
11–13 MARCH

The heartland of Victoria’s Goldfields region will blossom once again as the Begonia Festival returns to Ballarat over the Labour Day long weekend. This nature-based, three-day event embraces the city’s thriving, creative community and showcases its signature collection of rare begonias. This year’s program is set to bloom with colourful installations, fine food purveyors, markets, live music, kids’ activities and roving entertainment.

Highlights of the festival will include a spectacular floral display of rare begonias at the Robert Clark Conservatory and the PowerFM Begonia Parade on the final day. General admission to the festival is free.

ABILITY FEST
MELBOURNE
25 MARCH

Come together to celebrate friendship, sunshine and music at Ability Fest, Australia’s first all-accessible music festival and one of the leading inclusive events in the country. The festival seamlessly incorporates elevated platforms, pathways and ramps, a dedicated sensory area with sensory kits, quiet zones, companion ticketing, Auslan interpreters and accessible toilets to ensure everyone can attend.

The 2023 line-up is outstanding – Alex Laney, Alter Boy, Broods, DZ Deathrays, Hilltop Hoods and Sampa The Great are just a few of the awesome artists gracing the stage this year. Food trucks serving everything from tacos and donuts will also be present, with each catering to suit all dietary requirements. Tickets for Ability Fest are on sale now.

MELBOURNE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
24 MARCH – 2 APRIL

Eat your way through the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, running over 10 days and featuring cuisine from both Australia and around the world. The program is full to the brim with over 100 delicious things to do, from a Signature Chef Series and Crawl and Bite tours to the World’s Longest Lunch. It doesn’t matter what your foodie niche is, there’s a flavour for every palette; baked goods, fresh seafood, international delicacies and mouth-watering sweets, plus so much more.

CHILLOUT FESTIVAL
DAYLESFORD
9–13 MARCH

Starting from humble beginnings, ChillOut Festival has grown over the years to become the biggest country Queer Pride event in regional Australia. The jam-packed program includes both free and ticketed events which will have you spoilt for choice. Think Granny Bingo, a margarita-themed evening, tree planting and art exhibitions.

Stay the night by purchasing a Chillout Glamping Package, including a three-night stay in a deluxe double or triple tent, a fun take on accommodation in Daylesford. Join Chillout Festival this year to help promote and encourage tolerance, understanding and inclusion of regional Victoria’s LGBTQIA+ community.

TASTES OF RUTHERGLEN
RUTHERGLEN
11–12 MARCH

Calling all wine lovers – Tastes of Rutherglen is returning in 2023 to showcase some of the region’s finest cuisine with purposely paired wines. This year’s program features 17 local cellar doors and over 200 wines to taste, plus masterclasses and other special events on offer.

If you love breathtaking outdoor spaces, lazing on lush lawns, unwinding in the sun and indulging on local produce and fine wines, Tastes of Rutherglen is for you. Tickets are on sale now, with an optional add-on shuttle or regional bus.

BIG PICTURE FEST
FRANKSTON
20–26 MARCH

Big Picture Fest is returning to various locations across the Frankston CBD this year for another epic artist-driven, street art festival. A highlight of the festival is the Block Party, a free and fun celebration of street art with bands, street performances, food trucks and live performances.

Other events include the Night Walk, Cube37 Gallery Take Over and various street art tours. Attendees can admire work from local and international artists including Smug One, Katherine Gailer, Hard Thirteen, Maria Pena and Olana Janfa.

CASTLEMAINE STATE FESTIVAL
CASTLEMAINE
24 MARCH – 9 APRIL

Founded in 1976, the Castlemaine State Festival is known as Australia’s longest-running flagship regional arts festival. With its unique depth, scope and diversity, the festival has made a big impact on the social and cultural fabric of central Victoria. Castlemaine State Festival encompasses performance, music, literature, visual arts and film, connecting people and developing the regional community.

This year’s line-up is fun and fresh, with amazing free and ticketed events filling the program. Get ready for The Southern River Band, Kian, Dirty Laundry, Phee Broadway Theatre and Essays on Earth, just to name a few. Tickets are on sale now.

LOTI BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH
ST KILDA
ONGOING

LOTI in Melbourne‘s bougie beachside suburb of St Kilda is now hosting a three-day Bottomless Brunch across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from midday to 3 pm. Enjoy sea views alongside an endless flow of mimosas, bubbles or wine paired with some insanely delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Indulge in blue swimmer crab spaghetti, salt and pepper calamari and house-baked focaccia among a variety of other menu stand-outs. The experience is priced at $95 a head, with a range of fancy add-ons if you’re looking to spoil yourself. The

MOOMBA FESTIVAL
MELBOURNE
9–14 MARCH

This fun and free festival on the banks of the Yarra River is the place to be this month. Moomba is a long-running Melbourne occasion known for being Australia’s largest free community event, with a particular focus on people, families and accessibility for all. Those with walking aids, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams can enjoy Moomba, although some rides vary depending on individual needs.

Everyone from tiny tots to adults will have something to look forward to at Moomba. There’s a variety of workshops, rides, food, discos, sporting events and live entertainment. The Moomba Parade and Birdman Rally are always crowd-pleasers.

GREAT AUSSIE HIKE
MORNINGTON PENINSULA
24–25 MARCH

Great Aussie Hike and LifeLine Australia are partnering up post-pandemic to raise awareness for mental health and show support for one another, both mentally and physically. Groups of friends and family will flock to the Mornington Peninsula to tackle the a 30km, 43km, 57km or 100km course as a registered team, with all proceeds going to Lifeline Australia.

There is also a unique ‘Share the Distance’ option in which participants can either take on the entire course or swap sections with teammates. Those keen to register for the 2023 Great Aussie Hike can do so on its website; places are limited so get in quick to be a part of this awesome event.

WET SUNDAYS
W MELBOURNE
FROM 5 MARCH

As of 5 March, the hugely popular WET Sunday Sessions are set to take over W Melbourne again. Enjoy views of the city’s epic skyline while sipping cocktails by the pool, making the most of the weekend before that Monday grind. No matter the weather, a line-up of party-starting DJs will hit the decks to turn it up between 2 pm and 6 pm, as well as roving gourmet canapes, succulent seasonal slushies and a cocktail upon arrival.

WET Sundays can now be booked ahead of time, with day beds, lounges or tables available. Larger groups of up to 30 can also book the exclusive lounge featuring a satellite bar and dedicated waiter. Prices start at $45 per person for general admission and range up to $4500 for the VIP lounge.

QLD

WORLD SCIENCE FESTIVAL
BRISBANE
22–26 MARCH

Discover all things scientific at the 2023 World Science Festival at the Queensland Museum in Brisbane. Between a selection of paid events and free activities, your interest is sure to be peaked by some spell-binding science subjects. Think dinosaurs, exo-planets, insects, fungi, anatomy and myth-busting.

The World Science Festival is part of Curiocity Brisbane, which celebrates science, technology and art through a series of outdoor installations, programs, tours, workshops and Curious Conversations. Running from 22 March to 2 April, go beyond the Queensland Museum to unlock the state’s capital with curiosity.

JUICY BEER FESTIVAL
BRISBANE
11 MARCH

Held in buzzing Brisbane suburb of Fortitude Valley, the Juicy Beer Festival celebrates modern and independent beer from breweries across Australia. Immerse yourself in a contemporary festival setting that focuses on food, music and most importantly, beer.

Held at the iconic Fortitude Music Hall, Juicy tickets are on sale now for $140 a pop. Your ticket encompasses an all-inclusive beer tasting experience with 20 independent breweries, the lager lounge and stout bar, tastings from all breweries pouring and a funky festival tasting glass, plus a curated line-up of DJs.

BEYOND THE SAND
GOLD COAST
13–21 MARCH

Beyond the Sand is an arts festival like no other; it’s set between stunning local art galleries and Surfers Paradise, one of the best beaches on the Gold Coast. Witness everything from aerial acts and circus contortionists to huge, detailed sand sculptures and immersive art installations. There are sand art activities to inspire kids’ creativity too.

At the art gallery, discover a diverse display of artwork, paintings and sculptures created by talented local artists at the art gallery. If a piece of artwork truly speaks to you, there’s an option to purchase it as well. Down on the sand, admire amazing sculptures and watch 10 renowned artists go head-to-head for the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships.

NOOSA FESTIVAL OF SURFING
NOOSA
3–12 MARCH

Evolving from a longboarding contest back in 1992, the Noosa Festival of Surfing sees surfers from Australia and around the globe gather to compete on Noosa’s best sets. Loosely based on the popular Biarritz Surf Festival in France, the festival attracts record levels of competitors each year as well as thousands of spectators.

Head down to a selection of the best beaches in Noosa to witness surfing legends do their thing. A beach bar, live music, art shows and shaping exhibitions are also there to keep you entertained between sets. A highlight of the festival has to be watching the now world-famous Dog Surfing Championships.

FEAST OF THE SENSES
INNISFAIL
26 MARCH

Immerse yourself in Tropical North Queensland’s exotic fruit, local produce and fresh seafoods and meats at the 2023 Feast of the Senses, held in the jaw-dropping Cassowary Coast region. Innisfail will just be knocking on autumn’s door, meaning the muggy heat will have given way to cooler breezes.

Meander your way through various food events, farm trails and huge market day extravaganza featuring live cooking competitions. Fun fact: The Feast of the Senses is now the Guinness World Records Holder for the World’s Longest Banana Split, recorded at 8,040 metres!

SUNSET OPERA
BRISBANE
4–5 MARCH

Sunset Opera will be taking over the aptly named Riverside Green for two magical evenings this March. Performers from the Opera Queensland company will be serenading crowds with both popular opera as well as sneak previews into the upcoming season.

With tickets priced at only $8, this special event is not one to miss. Gates open at 5 pm, with performances at both 6 pm and 7 pm. Food stalls will be open to onsite, as well as a licensed bar. Enjoy some of Australia’s most hauntingly beautiful voices against the backdrop of the Brisbane River and CBD at sunset.

TAS

TASMANIAN WINE FESTIVAL
HOBART
18–19 MARCH

Experience the best of Tassie’s food and wine at the Tasmanian Wine Festival, set amongst the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Follow the trail through the gardens to discover over 25 local wine makers and vineyards, eager to share their products with you through tastings and talks. Join masterclass sessions or simply laze on the grass in the sun while you sip your drop of choice. Some of the best Tassie foodies will compliment your drink with a range of delicious nibblies, which you can enjoy while listening to a fantastic set of live music. Tickets are on sale now, with a VIP Experience also available.

MUDBAR SUMMER PARTY
LAUNCESTON
2 MARCH

Mudbar Restaurant in Launceston is rolling out the red carpet for its Summer Party, a soirée of seafood, French champagne, Tassie sparkling and an angelic live performance from the St. Cecilia String Quartet. A red carpet calls for a matching outfit too, so make sure to don your best cocktail dress or fanciest tie to fit the occasion. Sip on a glass of Perrier Jouet for an elegant night of seafood extravagance, great fun and other beautiful wines overlooking the waterfront. Tickets are on sale now.

ECHO FESTIVAL
SWANSEA
31 MARCH – 2 APRIL

Switch on your senses for the East Coast Harvest Odyssey Festival, commonly known as ECHO, to experience the traditions of harvest, both old and new. In the picturesque wine country unfolding at the edges of Swansea, encounter chefs, winemakers, producers, artists, musicians, scientists and storytellers through a truly amazing program.

Think yoga, a Sunday swim in the sea, live performances, wine and whisky tastings, science bars and bounty feasts, all surrounding this year’s theme of Waterbirds. Attendees will also be welcomed to help built a traditional Tasmanian Aboriginal canoe and join in song as it floats down the Meredith River, ready for the Welcome to Country and Muttonbird dance. Tickets for this spectacular event are on sale now.

BASS IN THE DOMAIN
HOBART
11 MARCH

Put your party pants on Hobart – an all-new festival is coming to town. In first ever Bass In The Domain will take place in March at Hobart’s Regatta Grounds overlooking the stunning River Derwent. The debut line-up is nothing short of jumping; Aussie eccentrics Sticky Fingers are headlining, followed by Tyne-James Organ, The Delta Riggs, New Zealand’s JessB, Dizzy Days, Pritesh, Eliza Bird, Belle’s Boys and local Tassie favs – Sumner.

Just because it’s new, doesn’t mean it’s lacking. Bass In The Domain will have everything all the other big festivals do – a major main stage, carnival thrill rides, food vendors, trucks bars, first-aid tents and even markets. This all-ages licensed event kicks off at 12 pm, with tickets on sale now.

TASMANIAN GARLIC & TOMATO FESTIVAL
SELBOURNE
19 MARCH

Embracing the mantra “eat local – grow local” in 2023, the Tasmanian Garlic & Tomato Festival celebrate local and seasonal produce, the culture of food and bringing families and communities together. This year’s festival will focus on locally grown garlic and tomatoes along with other seasonal goods. Visitors can also expect workshops, produce competitions, cooking demonstrations, farm tours, music and plenty of activities for kids.

Nevil Reid, the farmer behind Australia’s biggest range of tomato varieties, will be appearing as a special guest. Tickets are on sale now, with children under the age of 16 entering for free.

WA

SCULPTURE BY THE SEA
COTTESLOE
3–20 MARCH

Sculpture by the Sea is set to transform the city’s iconic waterscape into a sculpture park, showcasing artists from across Australia and the world. The event will attract an estimated 180,000 local, interstate and international visitors to Cottesloe Beach for an extended summer. This year, over 70 artists from 15 countries will showcase their work across the 18-day exhibition, including sculptors from Japan, New Zealand, USA and Switzerland. Wander the beach from the sea wall along the sand towards North Cottesloe and the surrounding grassy areas to admire these stunning sculptures, only on display once each year.

ROAM FESTIVAL
BINDOON
4–5 MARCH

If you’re feeling burnt out or closed in, Roam Festival in the small cattle town of Bindoon is perfect for you. Representing a sensory departure from the mundane, Roam features a curated selection of local and international electronic artists. AK Sports, Ben Miller, Anne Lunoe, Helena Hauff and Sam Alfred are a taste of what to expect from this epic line-up.

A key element to this event is camping, which is free to all festival goers with a ticket. Powered sites, pre-pitched tents and glamping options can also be purchased as add-ons to tickets. Embrace music and freedom this month at Roam Festival, with tickets on sale now.

NANNUP MUSIC FESTIVAL
NANNUP
3–6 MARCH

In the centre of WA’s stunning Southwest on the banks of the Blackwood River lives Nannup, a small timber town known for its annual music festival. Held annually over the Labour Day long weekend, the streets of Nannup come alive with stalls, performances and activities, spearheaded by a community-minded spirit and dedicated committee.

Guests can expect an eclectic mix of incredible acts over free and ticketed venues, plus camping, street performances, markets, workshops, talks and activities for little festival-goers. Other highlights include the Emerging Artist Award, a Busking Competition, yoga sessions and sustainability education.

CHANNEL 7 MANDURAH CRAB FEST
MANDURAH
18–19 MARCH

Highlighting the best of Mandurah and the Peel region, the Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest is coming back for another year of family, fun and food. This annual event is all about showcasing the location and lifestyle that makes Mandurah so special. This year’s Crab Fest encompasses fresh food, live music and performances, children’s entertainment, competitions, cooking demonstrations and aquatic entertainment.

Guests can even brush shoulders with fame, thanks to celebrity appearances from Fast Ed and performances by Vanessa Amorosi, Greta Ray and Electric Fields. There are also ticketed events that include Prosecco & Pilates and cocktail masterclasses.

BROOME MARDI GRAS
BROOME
1–6 MARCH

If you’re a West-coast dweller and can’t head East for Sydney WorldPride, fear not. Broome Mardi Gras has come to the rescue with a stellar line-up and a range of fabulous activities. This festival runs across six different venues in Broome, featuring drag performances, DJ sets and other spectacular events. Think Drag Bingo, Mardi Gras Cabaret, dance parties, the Big Splash Boat Party, Drag Queen Story Time and the Mardi Gras Buzz Regatta. Tickets for the unmissable event are on now.

CITY WINE
PERTH
24–25 MARCH

Beer, cider and wine – oh my! Amongst the beautiful greenery of Russell Square, City Wine celebrates all things food, wine, spirits, cider and beer. Local producers will be serving up your favourite beverages to enjoy alongside live music and delicious tapas. The City Wine Festival is boutique in size and huge on delivery, inviting you to gather with friends and family to sample and appreciate tasty beverages at one of Perth’s favourite events. Tickets range from $35 to $145.

SA

A TASTE OF THE HILLS
ADELAIDE HILLS
4–5 MARCH

Join all of your favourite Adelaide Hills wineries, distilleries, breweries, cideries and foodies in one place at A Taste of the Hills this March. Exhibitors will include Cobbs Hill Estate, Paracombe, ABit Fancy Gin, HillTilly Distillery, Paella SA and Two Fat Blokes Pizza to name just a few.

Take part in tastings, masterclasses, live music, art and yoga among the tranquil scenery of the Adelaide Hills. Guests can also add on a pre-arranged private minibus, including pick up and drop-off in the city. Tickets are on sale now, with five per cent of ticket sales being donated to The Wombat Awareness Organisation.

WOMADELAIDE
ADELAIDE
11–13 MARCH

The iconic WOMADelaide, which stands for World Of Music, Arts and Dance, is returning to Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla in Adelaide this March. The open-air festival is one of the most celebrated annual festivals in the City of Churches, spanning across four thrilling days.

This year’s program offers performances from local and international artists, plus street theatre, art, stalls and installations. WOMADelaide is family-friendly too, with each adult ticket including up to two children under 12 for free, plus an awesome KidZone with daily activities.

GRAPES OF MIRTH
COONAWARRA
18 MARCH

In one of the many charming wine regions of South Australia, Grapes of Mirth will again combine two of life’s greatest pleasures – wine and comedy. Penley Estate vineyard will play host this year, pouring its own delicious wines as well as other local brands and serving up Turkish street food, Mexican food and picnic platters.

The program is jam-packed and promises all-day belly laughs. Attendees can expect Aussie icon Dave Hughes, Geraldine Hickey, Lizzo Hoo, Michael Hing and Prue Blake, with Merrick Watts hosting. Music will be pumping throughout the day thanks to DJ Pedro Moshman. Tickets are priced between $74.50 to $84.50 and are on sale now.

SUMMER GARDEN FESTIVAL
MODBURY
3–4 MARCH

Promised to be bigger and better than previous years, the free Summer Garden Festival will run over two days this year at Civic Park, Modbury. Friday night will be all about comedy in the Parlour tent, with bands, DJs and roving acts in the park. On Saturday, roving performances, hilarious shows and local musicians will keep the whole family entertained.

Food trucks, bars and art installations will be scattered about Civic Park to keep bellies fed and imaginations roaming. Tickets for the Summer Garden Festival are not required, all you need to bring is your excitement!

COLOUR TUMBY FESTIVAL
EYRE PENINSULA
10–13 MARCH

The Colour Tumby Festival is an annual arts and cultural festival serving up an exciting program of colour and movement on the stunning east coast of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. Held along the stunning waterfront of small town Tumby Bay, the family-friendly event features live music and entertainment, markets, a car rally and sailing regatta, fun runs, a fishing competition, kite flying and even sand sculpting. There’s also a street art trail, outdoor cinema and Adelaide Fringe entertainment. Almost all activities at Colour Tumby are free.

ADELAIDE MOTORSPORT FESTIVAL
ADELAIDE
25–26 MARCH

If you’re a car lover, you’re going to love this. Head to the iconic Adelaide F1 Grand Prix track for the Adelaide Motorsport Festival, a museum in motion displaying historic, rare and significant racing vehicles. The event combines automotive history with the latest tech to celebrate the power, speed and innovation of the industry.

This year’s program is sure to get your wheels rolling; from car displays and demonstrations to a street party precinct and corporate villas, there’s something for every revhead. Tickets are on sale now, with prices ranging from $20 to $120.

NT

FABALICE FESTIVAL
ALICE SPRINGS
9–12 MARCH

Continue the party post-Mardi Gras this March at fabALICE, a festival of drag and cabaret that celebrates the inclusivity and diversity of Alice Springs. There is so much to look forward to this year, with the fabALICE program simply bursting at the seams.

From the Sexual and Gender Diversity Community Forum to lip sync battles, cabaret shows, drag queen bingo, fashion shows and the fabALICE Under The Stars Gala, your itinerary is set to be jam-packed. Join the community of Alice Springs as it sparkles this March to celebrate pride, love and diversity.

BEERGUSTATION DINNER
DARWIN
11 MARCH

In collaboration with local brewer Beaver Brewery, the Hilton Darwin is hosting the Beergustation Dinner as part of its Hilton Dinner Series. immerse yourself in a five-course dinner reflecting local flavours and produce paired with five fresh craft beers.

The menu includes mouth-watering dishes such as pan-seared miso and peach-marinated barramundi and slow-braised beef cheek. Everything from stout and saison to lager and draught will be matched with each course. Tickets for this delicious degustation at one of Darwin’s finest hotels are on sale now.

FLICKERFEST
ALICE SPRINGS
18 MARCH

This one is for all you film buffs out there. The annual FlickerFest film festival returns to Alice Springs this March to showcase a selection of brilliant short films. Bring a chair or blanket down to the Araluen Circus Lawns for two nights of innovation and entertainment; Aussie short films will show on Friday night and International short films on Saturday night. Food and refreshments will be on-site to keep your fuelled for all your viewing pleasure. Tickets are on sale now.

ACT

ENLIGHTEN FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
3–19 MARCH

Watch Canberra light up at Enlighten Festival, the 17-day event taking over the capital this March. A diverse and exciting program will consume the city under a cloak of culture and creativity. From Enlighten Illuminations and after-dark activities to film and music events and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, visitors will be spoilt for choice.

During the second weekend of the festival, Pride Weekend @ Enlighten will host its own range of events to celebrate WorldPride and Mardi Gras. Enlighten Festival is mostly made up of free events, however, tickets can be purchased now for the few that require them.

CANBERRA CRAFT BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL
CANBERRA
18 MARCH

Canberra Craft Beer and Cider Festival showcases, you guessed it, the best breweries, cideries and distillers the country has to offer. The Festival will feature well-known brewers from across Australia including Stone & Wood, 4 Pines, BentSpoke, Lord Nelson and Mountain Culture. Live entertainment, a charity raffle, gourmet food trucks and a wide range of kids’ activities make for the perfect match pair. From curious beginners to budding craft brewers, all enthusiasts are welcome!

DARE TO DO IT
CANBERRA
8–9 MARCH

Fans of the hit television series Escape To The Chateau now have the opportunity to hear from Dick and Angel Strawbridge in person on their new book tour, Dare To Do It. Their book, Living The Chateau Dream, was published in late 2021 and shares stories of the couple’s discoveries, challenges and transformations. Dick and Angel’s live show will be held at the Canberra Theatre Centre, with tickets on sale now.