Sydney to pull out all the stops to ensure a Merry Christmas

Sydney always pulls out the stops to keep tourists entertained and Christmas is offers a feast of free events, markets, choirs, trees and lights bringing festive cheer to Australia's biggest city.

Think carol singers in action across the city, visits from Santa to a new Christmas fair and the tallest Christmas tree in the region.

The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, says the city's festive program is accessible and inclusive, with something for everyone and all ages.

“Christmas in Sydney - it really is the most wonderful time of the year,” she said.

“We’re spending more than $4.3 million on our celebrations and expanding our program so more people than ever can enjoy the fun.

"The city comes alive with celebration at Christmas time - we invite everyone to make the most of the festive season with our packed Sydney Christmas program."

Highlights will include the Martin Place Christmas tree, which for more than 50 years the Martin Place Christmas tree has been the centre of Sydney’s yuletide celebrations.

The tree stands 25-metres tall and features 800 branches dressed with 15,000 native Australian flowers, 330 specially created glossy baubles, 110,000 LEDs and a 3.5 metre colour-changing star.

It will be illuminated daily from 8pm to midnight until January 4 with light and music shows taking place every 15 minutes.

Five family-friendly concerts will feature live performances by Royston Noell, Mitch Tambo, The Listies and Junkyard Beats, along with festive activities, food trucks and visits from Santa on November 29: Pirrama Park, Pyrmont; November 30: Turruwul Park, Rosebery; December 6: Bicentennial Park, Glebe; December 7: Reg Bartley Oval, Rushcutters Bay and December 14: Alexandria Park, Alexandria.

The Surry Hills Christmas Fair on December 13 will be held from 11am to 10pm on Crown Street, between Foveaux and Cleveland streets.

Local businesses and restaurants will extend onto the street from 11am, with roving performers, Christmas shopping stalls, a pop-up cinema screening Elf and games,

The festive Martin Place Christmas Markets will be be held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in December until Christmas, from 11am to 9:30pm, while Pitt Street Mall will shine under a canopy of two-metre stars and 75,000 twinkling lights, creating the perfect backdrop for late-night shopping.

From December 1-24, choirs will perform live beside the Martin Place Christmas tree every evening from 6pm to 8pm, and at Customs House Square from December 16-24 from 6pm to 8pm.

For full details, dates and timings for the 2025 Sydney Christmas program visit sydneychristmas.com.au.

Dark Mofo returns to brighten up Tasmania's winter

Tasmania's Dark Mofo mid-winter solstice festival,will return in 2026 from Thursday, June 11-Monday, June 22.

Alongside large-scale public art installations, live performances and musical acts, Dark Mofo 2026 will include familiar rituals: Winter Feast, Night Mass, the Ogoh-Ogoh burning and the Nude Solstice Swim as the sun rises after the longest night of the year.

While the full festival program will be announced next year, organisers have revealed that a strictly limited first release of tickets to Night Mass - Dark Mofo's late-night takeover of Nipaluna/Hobart CBD - will go on sale at 10am on Wednesday, November 5, to those who have pre-registered via the Dark Mofo website.

"Mark your calendars," urged Dark Mofo artistic director Chris Twite. "It’s exciting to share Dark Mofo’s 2026 dates today as we take our first steps towards next year’s festival where we’ll once again bathe the streets in red, feast by firelight and indulge in a smorgasbord of art, music and performance.

"With plenty of surprises in store, revellers have an opportunity this week to access an early release of tickets to Night Mass and get a head start on planning their winter debauchery."

Following a one-year hiatus, the return of Dark Mofo in 2025 attracted over 50,000 interstate and overseas visitors to Tasmania and delivered over $67 million in economic benefit to the state.

"We’re so grateful for the continued support from David Walsh, and that of the Tasmanian Government, not to mention Tasmanian businesses, residents and visitors - all of whom enable us to continue celebrating the dark," Twite says.

Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, said: "Dark Mofo is an iconic Tasmanian event, which drives visitation to the state during the off season and one that is recognised as a world-class winter festival. The Tasmanian Government is a proud supporter of this event.

‘Dark Mofo has something for everyone and we know how important it is to our tourism and hospitality sector during the quieter months. Visitors to Tasmanian events stay longer than the average visitor, and stays have grown, now 2.5 nights longer than they were in 2019."

 # Dark Mofo is a project of the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania, with additional support provided by the City of Hobart.

Barangaroo to get all spritzy during November

Sydney's trendy Barangaroo precinct will be just a little spritzy during November.

Golden Hours Barangaroo - presented by Aperol Spritz - will celebrate the arrival of summer in the city with an month of aperitivo-inspired fun.

All day, every day at participating venues across The Streets of Barangaroo, guests can enjoy a two for $30 Aperol Spritz deal, food offerings, and a program of free entertainment across the precinct. 

There will be 23 participating venues inviting locals and visitors to enjoy the waterfront ambience with venues this year including new Italian restaurant GINA, recently reopened ZUSHI, Born by Tapavino, Barangaroo House and Crown Sydney’s Woodcut, a’Mare and Icebergs Harbour Bar.

Golden Hours Barangaroo is part of Aperol Spritz’s commitment to support Sydney’s 24-hour economy with the event celebrating the Italian aperitivo ritual.

"Aperol is thrilled to partner with Bars of Barangaroo District to bring Golden Hours Barangaroo to life," says Jacopo Borsa, managing director of Campari Australia.

"It's the perfect setting to enjoy an Italian aperitivo experience with a refreshing Aperol Spritz and the company of good friends and family. Salut!"

Entertainment on offer will include DJs, roving performers, and live music.

Every Thursday to Sunday from 5-8pm, Sydney DJs will bring Italian disco vibes to Wulugul Walk, curated by Return to Rio.

Guests will also have the chance to win a trip to Italy as part of the precinct-wide celebration.

Anita Mitchell, chief executive of Placemaking NSW, says: "Barangaroo is one of Sydney’s famed harbourside precincts and vibrant initiatives like Golden Hours Barangaroo allows more people to enjoy this special place."

For more info and a full schedule of events, see goldenhoursbarangaroo.com.au or follow @aperolspritz on socials for updates.

Hunter Valley to welcome a new farmer’s market

The Hunter Valley is fertile ground for wine and food production.

And now Pokolbin, in the centre of the Hunter, is to get a new market this spring.

Pokolbin Market will officially launch on Sunday, September 7, at 691 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, offering a fresh destination for locals and visitors to explore the best of regional produce, artisan goods and handcrafted wares.

Set among the vineyards, Pokolbin Market will run every Sunday from 8am to 2pm, rain or shine - with a focus on local growers, creators, makers and musicians.

The market has a Farmers Market license and is calling for vineyards producers and performers to join its launch line-up.

“Pokolbin Market will be a celebration of the incredible talent and produce of the Hunter,” says Amanda Choularton, director of Organic Food Markets.

“With boutique wines, fresh-picked produce, handmade crafts and live music - all in one of NSW's most beautiful locations - it's set to be a must-visit experience every Sunday.”

The market will be family-friendly;, a responsible adult must supervise kids, and dogs are welcome on leashes.

Gippsland to welcome a new gourmet festival

Gippsland is to welcome a new spring gourmet festival.

Eat Drink Play Gippsland will make its debut in South Gippsland on Saturday, October 18.

The event promises to bring together the Victorian region’s best food, wine, beer, distillers, restauranteurs and producers together for afull day of celebration that will rolls into an evening festival of open-air music featuring acts including the Melbourne Ska Orchestra and Emma Donovan.

The event in Leongatha’s Railway Precinct is being guided by Dan Sims, the brains behind Pinot Palooza and Mould, as well as The Hills Are Alive Group, run by lifelong locals Aidan and Rhett McLaren.

Guests can expect bites from local favourites like Trulli, Hogget Kitchen, and Messmates, plus pours from winemakers including Fleet, The Wine Farm, Dirty Three, Patrick Sullivan, Xavier Wine and Lightfoot Wines.

Gurneys Cider, Loch Distillery, and Sailors Grave Brewing will also feature, alongside dairy delights from Gippsland Jersey, Prom Country Cheese, and Loch Cheese Merchant.

Day session tickets are $35, running from 11am to 5pm.

Night session tickets are $49 per person and run from 6pm to 10pm.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the inaugural Eat Drink Play Gippsland festival come to life” says South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor John Schelling.

“This event is a celebration of our region’s talented producers, makers and creatives, and a really great opportunity to showcase everything we have to offer. 

“From world-class wine and food, music and culture, it’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to experience Gippsland’s offerings and hospitality in one unforgettable weekend. South Gippsland Shire Council is proud to support an event that shines a spotlight on our region and brings our community together in such a vibrant celebration at the terrific Leongatha Railway precinct.”

More info at eatdrinkplaygippsland.com.au

At a loose end in Sydney this Sunday? The Shire is calling

The popular Engadine Street Festival in Sydney's south is back for 2025 - and it is set to be one of the the biggest celebrations the Sutherland Shire has seen all year.

Taking over the heart of Engadine on Sunday, August 3, the event brings together locals from 9am-3pm for a day of shopping, food, fun and entertainment.

With over 200 stalls, the festival will showcase everything from hand-made crafts and fashion to street food and gourmet treats.

The event is promoted as "more than just a market" with rides, live music all day, kids’ entertainment, community performances, and a vibrant street party atmosphere.

Join thousands of happy festival-goers for one unforgettable day of fun, connection, and celebration.

For more info visit www.cambridgemarkets.com.au

Image: Jessica Nash  

New festival sets itself some lofty goals

A new festival in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales has set itself some rather lofty goals - with the confident announcement that The Horizontal Festival is set to "transform Australia's festival landscape".

The new festival, which will debut at Centennial Vineyards on October 4-5 is, apparently "positioned to become a major annual highlight on the state’s cultural calendar".

Big boasts. And the press release carries on in similar vein.

"Horizontal Festival is not just another food and wine event. It is an immersive journey, placing the customer experience at its heart by blending the best of NSW’s food, wine, music, and art in creatively curated spaces."

Sounds huge. But what makes it different?

"Festival-goers will enjoy varietal-led wine tastings, exceptional local cuisine, live music performances and art installations - all designed to foster meaningful connections between producers, visitors and industry."

To be honest, it doesn't sound drastically different to plenty of other festivals.

On we go.

"Horizontal Festival reimagines the festival experience by seamlessly merging the energy of a music concert with the discovery and charm of agri-tourism.

"Throughout the festival, guests will enjoy live performances and curated music in every zone, alongside captivating art installations, interactive workshops, and demonstrations by sommeliers, chefs, and artisans - creating a truly immersive, multi-sensory festival experience that invites exploration and engagement at every turn."

Hmm.

Festival creator and founder Amanda Fry, who I have known for some time, says: “Events have evolved beyond what’s on stage or on the plate - people are craving unforgettable, immersive experiences that engage all the senses.

"I designed Horizontal Festival to put the guest at the heart of the action from the moment they enter the event. Every space offers a multi-facetted experience because I want people to walk away having been part of something fresh, new and exciting.

“By blending the very best of NSW’s food, music, wine, and art in creatively curated spaces, we’re setting a new standard for what a festival can be. A festival that truly puts the customer experience first.

“Across all the events I curate, supporting local businesses and artisans is at the centre of everything we do. So Horizontal Festival is a platform to showcase the extraordinary talent and craftsmanship found right here in the Southern Highlands and across New South Wales.

"We want every guest to walk away feeling inspired, engaged, and part of a vibrant community and planning their next trip to meet the makers in their home towns.

“We’re thrilled that Destination NSW is investing in a regional event of this scale. Their support is instrumental in helping us shine a spotlight on the beauty and potential of the Southern Highlands as a backdrop to celebrating all the NSW makers, creators and growers can offer.”

At the heart of the Horizontal Festival experience are a series of distinct, immersive zones - each "thoughtfully curated" to transport guests on a journey of taste, sound, and discovery.

The organisers are certainly setting themselves a very high bar. And giving potential attendees high expectations.

Check out festival information, program highlights, ticket sales, and updates at www.horizontalfestival.com.au.

Fancy a Sunday session on the Hobart waterfront?

Hobart continues to embrace winter with luxury waterfront hotel MACq 01 Hotel warming things up with its new Sunday sessions: Sundays @ The Story Bar.

On the edge of the River Derwent, The Deck offers a front-row seat for golden-hour gatherings, with glowing fire pots, live local music from 4-7pm, and sweeping views as the sun sinks behind kunanyi/Mount Wellington.

Locals and visitors can gather and sip on The Story Bar’s signature cocktails, inspired by the legendary characters featured behind MACq 01’s 114 hotel room doors and graze on a tailored Sunday menu of casual bites designed for late afternoon lounging.

There will be a rotating line-up of local Tasmanian acoustic musicians, including Joel Hopson and Tony Mak, providing entertainment for Sundays @ The Story Bar.

Entry is free for all - but they'll probably expect you to buy a drink.

See https://www.macq01.com.au/eat-and-drink/

Events to help warm up Tasmania's winter

The Dark Mofo festival, which started last week, kicks off a series of winter events right around Tasmania. 

Still coming up during the Off Season: music festivals, light shows, whisky and a celebration of chocolate 

The Festival of Voices runs from June 27-July 6 in Hobart celebrates community singing in the heart of winter. Gather round the bonfire for a singalong, connect with Tasmania’s creative community, and take advantage of discounts when booking multiple events. Discover Tasmania: Festival of Voices

Permission to Trespass runs from July 1-31 showcases private properties across Wynyard and Table Cape, sampling regional delicacies over long-table lunches, creative workshops, and Moonlight Stories at Table Cape Lighthouse. Discover Tasmania: Permission to Trespass

Bicheno Beams is held from June 28-July 19 and is an annual gathering  that lights up this relaxed east coast town with technicolour family-friendly festivities. Listen to music composed especially to accompany the laser-light show across the Bicheno skyline. Discover Tasmania: Bicheno Beams

Tasmania Whisky Week Running from August 2-10, this is a treat for lovers of fine spirits, offering access to some of the state's award-winning whiskies. Discover Tasmania: Whisky Week

Beaker Street Festival runs from August 12-19 and is an annual festival of art and science. It is promoted as a "fusion of fun, flavour and learning" where attendees can dive into scientific debates, installations, tours, dinners, live theatre and music. Discover Tasmania: Beaker Street

Also check out the Whole Hog Feast at Lebrina on August 9,  the Burning of the Canes on June 21 at Eastford Creek Vineyard, the Lightwave festival at Nubeena on July 11-13, the Tassie Scallop Fiesta |at Bridport on August 3 and the Chocolate Winterfest in Latrobe on August 10.

For a full listing of Tasmanian itineraries, and information on travelling to Tasmania, visit the Discover Tasmania website www.discovertasmania.com.au.

If you're going to San Francisco, be sure to celebrate the Grateful Dead

San Francisco, the US capital of counterculture, is celebrating 60 years of iconic local band The Grateful Dead. 

The city is celebrating the band's profound influence on San Francisco and American culture with months of special events, concerts, exhibitions, and tributes citywide.

The celebration will reach a zenith August 1-3, when Dead & Company - a re-incarnation of the Grateful Dead that formed after the group's 2015 Fare Thee Well shows - headlines three nights of performances at Golden Gate Park's Polo Field, supported by tribute bands playing throughout San Francisco and City Hall and other landmarks illuminated in tie-dye.

The Haight-Ashbury quarter, the Grateful Dead's home during the transformative 1960s, will again become the colourful heart of festivities.

“From Haight-Ashbury to the Excelsior District where Jerry Garcia grew up, the Grateful Dead's influence is integral to our city's cultural fabric," said San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie. 

"Sixty years later, we proudly honour their legacy through concerts, community events, and celebrations, reflecting San Francisco's enduring spirit of creativity, connection, and musical innovation.”

Formed in San Francisco in 1965, the Grateful Dead helped redefine rock music with improvised performances blending rock, jazz, and blues. The band's legendary concerts drew devoted fans, creating a global community of “Deadheads” bonded by shared musical experiences.

The 60th-anniversary festivities include Dead & Company at Golden Gate Park with Grateful Dead band members Mickey Hart, and Bobby Weir, joined by John Mayer, Jeff Chimenti, Oteil Burbridge and Jay Lane. See deadandcompany.com for details.

The free, annual Jerry Day concert on August 2 commemorates band leader Jerry Garcia's 82nd birthday - he died of a heart attack in 1995 - and the 60th anniversary of the Grateful Dead at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater in McLaren Park. 

A commemorative “Jerry Garcia Street” sign will be unveiled at Harrington Street, Garcia's childhood neighbourhood, on August 1 at 11am.

Haight-Ashbury merchants are hosting celebrations on June 21, July 19 and August 16, featuring live music, art showcases, special promotions, and vibrant street activities 

At the annual Haight-Ashbury Street Fair on September 7 will showcase performances, art, community spirit, and a line-up of musicians. 

From October 29-November 23, Magic Theatre premieres a musical exploration of Garcia's early years in the Mission District.

Find more information on these and other events celebrating the Grateful Dead's 60th Anniversary here at sftravel.com.

Town Square to showcase a taste of South Australia

Locals and visitors can get a bite of the Tasting Australia festival by visiting Adelaide's Town Square food and dink hub. 

Town Square will be open from Friday, May 2, to Sunday, May 11, offering some of South Australia's best eating and drinking experiences.

Based in the heart of Adelaide in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga and free to enter across all 10 days of this year’s festival, Town Square is home to Dining Galleries presented by Mitolo Family Farms, Seppeltsfield and Never Never bars, Journey Beyond’s The Ghan Experience and a range of food and beverage events. 

Fifteen diverse food style options will be available to festival-goers in the Town Square this year, including eight new vendors:  Athena Greek Eats, Comida Hahndorf, Dolly Bar and Eatery, Francesca’s Pizza and Sandos, Le Cordon Vert, Motherlode Nuggeteria, Kha Nom and Kombi Crew Coffee. 

They will be joined by seven returning favourites: Africola Canteen, Braising Boy, GANG GANG, · Ong Noi Vietnamese Kitchen, Phat Head Dumpling, The Filipino Project and Shmochi by Shibui. 

Four vendors - Dolly, Ong, Braising Boy and The Filipino Project -  are set to be highlighted in a new series of events to the festival: Town Square Perfect Pair. 

Each will offer a signature dish and plant-based option to be paired with a matching wine selected by the festivals drinks curators Meira Harel and Banjo Harris Plane.



South Australian visual art will again feature across Town Square, with pieces from Sair Bean and Miles Dunne appearing in the Dining Galleries and a mural from Hari Koutlakis to take its place along one of the site’s walls.

A variety of local musicians, DJs and other entertainment are also set to play each day and evening, while Nature Play SA will invite children to make flower crowns as part of Mother’s Day celebrations in Town Square on May 11..

South Australian Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said Town Square would be a celebration of the best of South Australia.

“Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond is a joyful showcase of South Australia’s culinary excellence, one with so much to offer locals and visitors to our state,” Bettison said.


“Town Square is its heart - perfect for everything from a casual drink with friends to a special meal to mark a milestone. It’s also a chance to highlight regional venues through elements such as the Canteen series, where chefs and front-of-house teams give city guests a taste of their restaurants."

See tastingaustralia.com.au for more festival information and to purchase entry to ticketed events.

Dark Mofo promises a car crash - and lots more

From car crashes to artworks, performances to food and wine, Tasmania's favourite winter festival Dark Mofo returns from June 5-15 and 21.

Organisers today announced an ambitious program designed to entertain locals and bring tourists to the island state during its coldest month.

The mid-winter festival will showcase large-scale public artworks in the Dark Park art hub and across Nipaluna/Hobart, along with annual rites such as the sprawling Night Mass parties, the Winter Feast gourmet festival, the traditional Ogoh-Ogoh burning, and the Nude Solstice Swim.

Dark Mofo Films also make a comeback under new artistic director Chris Twite.

"Once again we will bathe the city in red, filling it with art and taking over disused and hidden spaces all across Nipaluna/Hobart," Twite says.

"Night Mass - the late-night labyrinth of revelry - will carve new paths through the city and a host of Australian-exclusive artists from around the world will storm our stages."

The festival will utilise deconsecrated churches, rooftops, basements, bars, bank vaults and the shores of River Derwent. Dark Mofo will also stretch its tentacles to a theatre in Launceston and the planetarium in Ulverstone.

"It feels incredible to bring so many boundary pushing artists to Tasmania in 2025 for the full-scale return of Dark Mofo," says Twite.

The festival features new artwork commissions from Paula Garcia and Carlos Martiel, the Australian premiere of a massive light installation from Nonotak and performances from the likes of The Horrors, Tierra Whack, Beth Gibbons and Crime and the City Solution.

In Crash Body (above), two cars will engage in an exchange of near misses, building to a visceral head-on collision between Brazilian artist Paula Garcia and a stunt driver. This event will unfold at the Regatta Grounds over two hours and festival-goers will encounter the aftermath at Dark Park.

SORA by Nonotak will create a dancing, hypnotic firmament inside a cavernous warehouse. Lights on kinetic armatures will spin and pulse at the whim of an invisible wind at times and raging like the apotheosis of an electrical storm at others.

In a brand new Mona exhibition, in the end, the beginning, Italian sculptor Arcangelo Sassolino plays with fire.

The Winter Feast will take over Princes Wharf and Salamanca Lawns throughout the festival. This year the Feast welcomes guest chef Niyati Rao from Mumbai restaurant Ekaa.

She will be teaming up with Chef Craig Will and fellow co-owners of Launceston’s Stillwater, Bianca and James Welsh.

This year’s Ogoh-Ogoh ritual solicits fears to feed a giant Maugean skate - an endangered species found only in Tasmania’s Macquarie Harbour and threatened by polluting fish farms.

Tickets are now on sale. Subscribe for updates at www.darkmofo.net.au.

# Accor Pacific has once again be named an Official Accommodation Partner for Dark Mofo.

Accor has four hotels in Hobart and five hotels in Launceston, including brands such as Mövenpick, Peppers, The Sebel, Mantra, Mercure and ibis Styles.

Festival-goers can take advantage of the following rates during the event period, starting from $201 per night in Hobart and from $199 per night in Launceston.

To book visit all.accor.com/darkmofo

Chelsea Social aiming to kick goals in Perth

Perth has a new all day and night dining and drinking spot as of April 1 - and that's no joke.

Housed inside the refurbed ibis Hotel in the centre of the West Australian capital, Chelsea Social "is set to be the city’s premier destination for work and play".

Well, that's what the media release says.

Expect "punchy colours, playful finishes and a London-meets-Perth attitude: this vibrant venue brings something completely new to the city’s dining and social scene".

Open from 6:30am until late, seven days a week, Chelsea Social will be serving up UK-inspired classics with a modern twist.

There will be hearty breakfasts, an all-day dining menu and share platters.



There will also be cocktails, wines and pub favourites, allegedly all with some Chelsea style - the suburb not the football team.

With room for up to 150 guests, Chelsea Social has three distinct spaces: Chelsea Dining Hall, Chelsea Bar, and Chelsea Events.

Open to hotel guests and the public, Chelsea Social will offer a Friday morning breakfast "rave" every week. That means they'll have a DJ. 

"Chelsea Social is designed to be more than just a venue - it's an experience," says hotel manager Sandy Lombardi.

“We’ve created a space that captures the essence of Chelsea London’s refined elegance - where the world’s most coveted brands like Gucci, Chanel, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co are just steps away -beautifully fused with the relaxed charm of Perth to deliver an unparalleled atmosphere in the heart of the CBD."

To mark the official opening, Chelsea Social invites the public to celebrate on Friday morning, April 11, when guests will be treated to free Chelsea Buns throughout the morning while a live DJ spins feel-good tunes.

Let's hope it's not a bunfight.

Ibis Perth, 334 Murray Street, Perth https://all.accor.com/hotel/1773/index.en.shtml

A week of science - and silliness - in Hobart

Hobart will once again embrace science and fun when the Beaker Street Festival turns Tasmania's capital into a meeting place for bold thinkers and adventurous spirits from August 12-19.

Beaker Streets is promoted as being "where science collides with art, music, and adventure, where conversations flow over cocktails, and where unexpected encounters spark new ways of seeing the world".

The festival - now in its eighth year - "has cemented its place as Australia’s most dynamic festival of science and culture," organisers say.

The schedule includes big ideas, deep discussions, and mind-expanding experiences - all set against the raw beauty of Tasmania’s winter landscape.



“Beaker Street Festival is all about making connections with interesting people, taking part in immersive experiences, and gaining new perspectives,” says festival founder and creative director Dr Margo Adler.

“If you have an idea in your mind of what a science festival is, it's not that.”

You can sign up for program announcements and early ticket access at www.beakerstreet.com.au.

The full festival program will be announced May 22. Stay tuned. 

Dark Mofo reveals provocative new artwork that highlights sadistic power

A provocative newly commissioned artwork is a key component of Dark Mofo, the winter festival that returns to Hobart this winter.

The organisers of Tasmania's mid-winter solstice celebration today revealed the first work in the 2025 festival.

The announcement comes after 6,000 pre-release tickets to festival favourite Night Mass sold out in less than four hours in November, and ahead of the full program release on April 4.

Dark Mofo’s new artistic firector Chris Twite said: ‘Taking the year off in 2024 was a difficult decision, but Dark Mofo is back with renewed energy and focus, ready to deliver an enormous program spanning two packed weeks this June.

‘We’re grateful for the support of the state government and the continued generosity of [MONA owner] David Walsh, which is allowing us to lay the foundation for another incredible decade of Dark Mofo.

‘It was encouraging to sell over 6,000 Night Mass tickets in less than four hours during our pre-release late last year, indicating that demand for the festival remains strong. We are hoping for a similar response when we release the full program on April 4.

‘Today we are excited to reveal the first piece of the festival's massive city wide contemporary art program with a powerful new work by Nathan Maynard".

Premiering at Dark Mofo in 2025 is We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep, a new commission by multidisciplinary Trawlwoolway artist Nathan Maynard.

Locked in a nondescript basement in Nipaluna/Hobart’s CBD, this ambitious work uses flesh to lay bare the legacy of cultural theft and erasure in a mass installation. think sheep heads preserved in glass jars. 

"Languishing in museums and their storerooms are the remains of ancestors of First Nations people from all around our globe," Maynard says.

"They have been stripped of identity and, without consent, treated like specimens for study and scientific inquiry.

"We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep speaks to the sadistic power white institutions flex when they deny First Nations people the humanity of putting our ancestor’s remains to rest in the physical and the spiritual."

Maynard’s installation is the first work to be revealed from the Dark Mofo 2025 program - featuring two weeks of "contemporary art, live music, ritual and revelry in the depths of winter".

Yo receive program updates and access to festival tickets see www.darkmofo.net.au.

Dark Mofo will run between June 5-15 and on June 21. 

New festival to showcase Ningaloo's natural beauty

Ningaloo Sky Festival, a celebration of the natural wonders of the Ningaloo region, has been unveiled for Exmouth in Western Australia from June 27-29.

The new festival will feature events, market stall holders, food trucks and local musicians/entertainers.

The region is known for its clear skies and pristine reefs.

"We are incredibly excited to launch the website and officially open registrations for the 2025 Ningaloo Sky Festival," said Exmouth Shire president Matt Niikkula.

"This festival is a celebration of our unique region, and we invite everyone to join us for a weekend of wonder under the Ningaloo Sky.

"With a diverse range of activities, local talent, and a spectacular concert and drone show planned, we encourage everyone to register their interest now and stay tuned for more exciting announcements."

My thoughts are that organisers are cutting things a little fine by asking for applications of interest as late as March - but it sounds an event with great potential.

For the geographically challenged, the shire of Exmouth is in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, over 1,000 kilometres north of the state capital, Perth.

Ningaloo Reef is Australia's largest fringing coral reef and the only large reef positioned very close to a landmass. It is known for its whale sharks. 

Eskimo Joe will be the headline act for the Ningaloo Sky Festival with a free concert on the Saturday night.

For more info see www.ningaloosky.com.au

The Slate showcasing a very fashionable event

 

One of Thailand's top resorts, The Slate Phuket, is starting its 2025 events calendar with a high-energy fashion event.

The resort's first BOLD event, Dynamic Dimensions, will blend the fashions of Frederick Morrison (This is Fred), the art of Trey Hurst, the soundscapes of Marcos Alves, and the food of chef Lynley Marston to create an immersive experience.

The event will be held in Rivet and Rebar on Saturday, March 8.

“At The Slate, we believe in pushing boundaries and providing our guests with experiences that ignite their imagination,” says The Slate's owner Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong. 

“BOLD events are designed to transport guests into a world of artistic brilliance through food, fashion, art, and performance and this event promises to take them through different sights, sounds, and sensations to experience creativity in motion.”

The Slate team is "passionate about showcasing new talent and celebrating creativity in all its forms and BOLD events are designed to give guests and the people of Phuket a truly immersive experience that redefines what it means to escape from the everyday".

“We believe travel should be about more than relaxation; it should be about discovery, growth, and shared moments that linger in the heart. This one-night-only event is the perfect embodiment of that philosophy.” 

Prices start from 2500++ THB per person. To book call +66 76 327 006 or email fb@theslatephuket.com

Designed by Bill Bensley, The Slate Phuket is set on Nai Yang Beach and is an experiential hotel that tells the story of the island's rich tin mining history. BOLD events encourage guests to Be Original, Lighthearted and Daring by showcasing chefs, artists, and creators.

See www.theslatephuket.com 

Dancing in the streets: Time for a festival vibe in Sydney

Village high streets across the City of Sydney will be transformed into lively festival hubs over the coming months as part of the Sydney Streets program.

The roads will be closed to traffic for the day as the street festivals kick off at 11am and run until late in the evening.

The festivals feature live music performances, outdoor dining from local restaurants and food vendors, street entertainment and roving performers.

Local businesses and organisations will host pop-up shops and outdoor market stalls, offering giveaways, competitions and exclusive deals.

The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, said the series had grown significantly since it was first introduced during the pandemic. 

“Sydney Streets provides a platform for local shops, restaurants and businesses to connect with their communities and visitors in a friendly, open-air environment,” Moore said.

“It’s an opportunity for locals to shop, eat and explore their neighbourhood, with unique experiences and surprises at every corner.”

Surrounding street closures and special event clearways set the stage for the events, opening with a Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony.

Activities to keep kids entertained will include a circus playground, origami workshops, face painting, art classes and reading areas.

Some events will feature a fun dog agility course, while others include fitness sessions, craft workshops, health checks and games.

February 15: Macleay Street, Potts Point

February 22: Stanley Street, Darlinghurst

March 8: Harris Street, Pyrmont

March 15: Glebe Point Road, Glebe

March 29: Redfern Street, Redfern

April 5: Crown Street, Surry Hills

A special Sydney Streets event will also take place as part of the Sydney Lunar Festival in Haymarket from 5:15-9:30pm on Saturday, February 1.

Three live entertainment sites on Sussex Street, Ultimo Road and Harbour Street will feature traditional and contemporary performances including lion and dragon dancers, dance groups, martial arts and singers.

To welcome the Year of the Snake, food trucks and market stalls with meals and gifts will be set up throughout Haymarket, 12 zodiac animal lanterns will line George Street and DJs will entertain visitors throughout the night.

For more information see whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Image: Sydney Streets: Glebe Point Road. Katherine Griffiths for City of Sydney

Thirsty hordes ready to rock downtown Geelong

 

Geelong sounds like a fun place to be this weekend - particularly if you enjoy a beer or two. 

Tickets for the Geelong Beer Festival have been selling at a record pace ahead of the event at Johnstone Park on Saturday, January 18, that is expected to draw 6,000 thirsty people to the centre of Victoria's second city. 

Festival highlights include a performance by British India and Kaiju Collab -a new European style lager that will launch at the festival. 

British India hit the stage at 7pm and headline along with acoustic artist Felipe Baldomir, and comedian Andrew Hansen. 

Festival co-director Kieran Blood says demand for tickets has exceeded all expectations.

"We’ve never seen ticket sales like this before," he said. 

"With accommodation already booked out and limited tickets remaining, we’re gearing up for a record-breaking event that will put Geelong on the map as the ultimate summer destination." 

There will be over 300 craft beverage offerings: beers, spirits, wines and cocktails, along with gourmet food from artisan producers

Lindsy Greig, a certified Cicerone and former cheesemonger, will host beer and cheese pairings and tastings while there will also be family-friendly entertainment from roaming performers, live comedy sessions, DJs and dance-offs. 

The event will run from noon-8pm. 

Limited tickets at https://www.geelongbeerfestival.com.au

The most wonderful time of the year in Hobart

This is the most wonderful time of the year to be visiting the Tasmanian capital of Hobart.

Not only is the Sydney to Hobart yacht race fleet zeroing in on Hobart, the sun is (hopefully) shining, and the locals are celebrating food and drinks at the annual waterfront festival The Taste of Summer.

Until January 4, the Taste celebrates Tasmanian wines, whiskies, coders and local produce.

Whether you choose to sit on the waterfront with a dozen freshly shucked oysters and a bottle of Tasmanian sparkling, or grab an ice-cold beer and some barbecued meat and watch the kids play and explore in the dedicated children's play area 'Little Hobart', there really is something for everyone.

 There are over 75 food and drink stalls, as well as roving entertainers, with the Hoodoo Gurus the headline act on New Year's Eve, when guests can enjoy prime viewing spots for the traditional firework displays.

I visited on the opening day was impressed by the increased amount of seating spaces and smaller crews. 

Naturally, I took the opportunity to taste from wines with Jeremy Dineen from Haddow and Dineen (above) and Luke Andree from Sonnen (below), as well as enjoying some seriously good seafood and some delightful fresh air.      

From signature seafood and farm-to-table delights to world-class wine and spirits and artisan cheese, every bite promises tells a story of Tasmania’s farms and pristine waters. And food styles range from Ethiopian to Taiwanese and Turkish. It's a top-notch day or night out.

 

Try Ricky Ponting's wine, perhaps with some Bass Strait scallops, or maybe a dram of local whisky.

There is also an eclectic line-up of performers and musicians on the Taste of Summer Stage. Get along, you'll enjoy yourself 

See https://www.tasteofsummer.com.au/