08 March 2024
17 mins Read
As the holiday season officially comes to a close, it can be a little harder to kick back into gear and find out what’s going on around Australia this month.
But don’t stress, we’ve got you covered with our up-to-date guide on all the best things happening in your state this February, from pride celebrations and sporting events to art exhibitions and film festivals.
NSW | VIC | QLD | TAS | WA | SA | NT | ACT
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is back for another amazing two-week-long celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community. The festival theme for 2024 is Our Future, which was developed in recognition of the parade’s history (and future) as a beacon of hope, creativity and pride.
The program this year is looking bright, with everything from beach parties and art exhibitions to sporting tournaments, live performances and drag shows. There isn’t an event you’ll want to miss. Tickets are on sale now!
The Mardi Gras Parade is one of WorldPride’s biggest events. (Image: Destination NSW)
Celebrating 38 years in 2024, Surfest is one of the largest surfing festivals in the Southern Hemisphere. Over 800 competitors from across the Asia-Pacific region come to Newcastle to compete for cash prizes and World Surf League points.
Surfest is inclusive and interactive, with competitive events for men, women and children surfers at several of Newcastle’s beautiful beaches. Family and friends can come down and watch the action, grab some food and even meet some world-class surfers.
Surfest attracts over 800 surfers from Australia and around the world. (Image: Surfest)
SailGP, one of the world’s biggest sailing events, is heading to Sydney in February. Get up close and personal to the 50-foot catamarans racing at speeds of 90 kilometres an hour across Sydney Harbour.
Teams from all over the world will be competing for precious points, including Australia, who are currently sitting in third place. Spectators can board an official spectator boat or watch from the shore where there will be live commentary, a bar, a fan shop and post-race entertainment.
Sail GP is one of the world’s top sailing events. (Image: Australia Sail Grand Prix Sydney)
Known as one of Australia’s leading international non-fiction film festivals, Antenna is back for more in 2024. Over 11 spectacular days, the festival will showcase 52 of the most creative documentaries from around the globe.
The line-up is looking fantastic, with films ranging across multiple genres and topics – all sure to be visually stunning and thought-provoking. A day of industry talks and masterclasses will also be taking place at the State Library of NSW, called Antenna DocTalk.
Films such as Memory (pictured) will screen at Antenna this month.
On every Friday throughout February, Lowe Wines is hosting Harvest Bar, an epic little pop-up at its cellar door in Mudgee that is sure to sate your summer sweats.
The Harvest Bar is set to be a relaxed affair by design. Guests can either drop by and enjoy a quick nibble and glass of wine or spend the evening sampling all five dishes from the alternating tapas menu. Or, our advice? Visit twice and do both.
Sample summer cocktails at the pop-up Harvest Bar.
Legendary artist George Byrne will be back in Sydney for his Synthetica exhibition, to be held at Olsen Gallery this month. The series aims to challenge preconceptions of reality in an increasingly digital age while also paying homage to George’s analogue photographic roots.
Exploring the tension between the natural and artificial, the exhibit is sure to get your mind going.
Yucca Valley Liquor by George Byrnes, 2024.
The annual RAW24 art exhibition at MAMA (Murray Art Museum Albury) is returning this month, showcasing the best original artworks produced by young people from the Murray region.
This year’s event will feature 12 artists who have worked across a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture and photography. With pieces touching on themes of self-identity, mental health and body positivity, the exhibit is a must-see for young and old.
MAMA in Albury hosts the annual RAW24 exhibition. (Image: Destination NSW)
The Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney invites you to explore its summer season event, Wonderwater. It is all about family fun this February, with an awesome Octopus Garden, interactive Lego Reef and a range of Kids on Deck activities.
There are also several exhibitions, as well as roving performers, plays, workshops and educational programs. Make sure to visit at the start of the week for Mermaid Mondays, where kids can meet a real-life mermaid.
Kids will love the Octopus Garden at Wonderwater. (Image: Tim Pascoe)
St Kilda Festival returns in 2024 to celebrate summer, Aussie tunes and community spirit. The extended two-day program traverses local music, family activities and market stalls, putting it up there with some of the best summer festivals in Australia.
This year, the setlist features Mallrat, Budjerah, Telenova and Big Words, to name a few. And with so many things to do in St Kilda, you’d be silly not to make it a staycation.
St Kilda Festival is one of Australia’s oldest music festivals.
Victoria’s only polo event for the summer, Twilight Beach Polo, is returning to the sands of St Kilda West Beach this February. The event delivers everything Melbourne has to offer – fashion, sport, food and wine, in an atmosphere that makes it one of the city’s must-attend events.
Guests can choose from a range of ticketing options and VIP packages, including the Polo Pass, The Beach Club – Private Booth, West Beach Pavilion and The Luxury Escapes Lounge. The Private Marquee is already sold out, so be quick!
Twilight Beach Polo is held in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda.
On the banks of the ancient Murray River on Yorta Yorta Country, Riverboats Music Festival entertains all weekend long. The stellar line-up is sure to please, with big names like Kasey Chambers, Mia Dyson, Paddy McHugh and Missy Higgins taking to the stage.
The festival’s iconic paddle steamer sideshows will also return this year. In partnership with the iconic Echuca Paddlesteamers, attendees can experience a series of intimate sideshows aboard the historic PS Pevensey.
Jump onboard PS Pevensey for an intimate concert.
Melbourne’s Nordic-inspired restaurant Freyja’s executive chef Jae Bang and visiting executive chef Hugo Souchet from esteemed French eatery Les Prés d’Eugénie are teaming up for the 4 Hands Dinner.
Held exclusively over three nights, the two chefs combine their Michelin star pedigree for an unforgettable night of food. Each six-course dinner is priced at $350 per person, with a glass of Pernet et Pernet Champagne upon arrival.
Prepare for a night of divine food with a 4 Hands Dinner at Freyja.
In the alpine resort town of Falls Creek, you’re invited to Feastival, a celebration of the region’s best food, wine, music and art. Festi activities include a paint and sip brunch, degustation lunch and live comedy.
There will also be live performances from incredible Aussie talents such as The Temper Trap, Thelma Plum and Holy Holy. Tickets are on sale now!
Aussie musical acts like The Temper Trap will take to the stage at Feastival.
Take in the stunning High Country views from the top of Mt Buller this February, with the unforgettable From Sea to Summit lunch celebrating the best of both land and ocean. The three-course meal will feature farm-fresh produce and seafood delicacies, paired with a drink upon arrival.
It’s the perfect opportunity for an afternoon filled with good company and delicious food. Tickets are on sale now, priced at $43 per person.
The Mount Buller area is known for its stunning High Country views.
The 2024 Antipodes Festival – Melbourne’s biggest celebration of Greek culture – is returning for another epic year. Held in the historical Greek Quarter of Melbourne, right next door to the Greek Centre, get ready to be transported to the Med.
The family-friendly festivities include live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, dance, music, street theatre, competitions and lots of community activities. It’s time to go Greek!
Grab your togs and get ready for a weekend of sunshine and swimming with Noosa Summer Swim. Now one of Australia’s most popular summer swimming events, the open-water adventure takes participants along Main Beach in Noosa and through the stunning national park.
Whether you’re an avid aquanaut or simply looking for a break from the heat, there’s room for everyone to participate. On Saturday, dip your toe into wellness with a new yoga program, plus breakfast and a ‘Rise and Nourish’ talk with guest speakers.
The swim starts at Noosa’s gorgeous Main Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
The streets of Brisbane are set to come alive this month with BrisAsia to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. More than 20 fun-filled events will bring 11 suburbs across Brissy to life.
The program has been jam-packed with everything from live concerts and pop-culture parties to an all-day festival dedicated to dumplings. BrisAsia includes free and ticketed events so everyone can come down and enjoy.
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon of BrisAsia 2024.
Summer is all about fun at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas this February with its Hot and Spicy Month of Love. Events range from MasterChef fan-favourite Khanh Ong’s Lagoon House takeover and poolside sunset sessions with live DJs.
There will also be a laughter-filled girls’ night out and other more family-friendly activities. Add the cherry on top by booking a stay in Port Douglas, one of the best coastal towns to visit in summer.
Indulge in an array of event during Sheraton Port Douglas’ Month of Love.
It’s time to get hyped – an all-star international line-up is headed to Brisbane this month for St Jerome’s Laneway Festival. Think headlines like multi-award-winning rapper Stormzy, Steve Lacey and Dominic Pike, with Aussie artists taking to the stage before them.
Laneway is known as one of the best summer festivals in Australia, attracting thousands of festi-goers every year. The festival will also be hitting other Aussie cities including Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth.
Laneway is one of Australia’s best music festivals. (Image: Bianca Holderness)
Get ready to rock in the coastal towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy at the Agnes Blues, Roots and Rock Festival. Situated on the ‘deep south’ of the Great Barrier Reef, the epic event is a favourite among locals.
The line-up this year is sure to impress, with a program full to the brim with masterminds of each genre. Think Hello Jane, Daryl James and Olive Mae, plus so many more. Tickets are on sale now.
Get ready to rock the weekend away. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)
The mobility of Mona Foma brings its rewards. The fact the annual summer festival is not tethered to a particular site makes it a celebration of transience and the freedom of creativity that inspires.
The program is truly compelling, from music and art to workshops and interactive experiences, it’s no wonder this is a Tassie favourite.
Mona Foma will again pop up around lutruwita/Tasmania in 2024.
Known as Tasmania’s premium summer event, Festivale is a three-day celebration of regional food, drink and local entertainment in City Park, Launceston.
Guests are immersed in a variety of activities, from beverage masterclasses and chef demonstrations to live music and countless stalls. Under historic elm trees decorated with hanging lights, family and friends can relax in the open space and enjoy the festivities.
There will be plenty of stalls to browse offering regional food and drink. (Image: Adam Gibson)
Get your running gear ready, your bike helmet out and your swimsuit on because the 2023 IRONMAN 70.3 Tasmania is here! It’s a great opportunity to get out in the sunshine and fresh air before the cold weather makes its way to Tassie for the cooler months.
The swim leg takes place in the calm waters of the River Derwent in Hobart, followed by a testing 90-kilometre bike ride and a run through city hotspots towards the finish line. There will also be an IRONKIDS race, so the whole family can get involved.
Transport yourself to the streets of Italy with the help of Festa Italia, Hobart’s celebration of all things Italy. Not only will visitors be treated to a range of delicious Italian food, but will experience the culture of a country that’s over 15,000 kilometres away.
Dive in to a glorious range of Italy’s best dishes at Festa Italia.
This year’s Festival of King Island (FOKI) will see the usual mix of musical genres overlapping with the great produce the island is known for.
The Tassie festival has stayed close to its original vision: to attract crowds and celebrate the island overlooking picturesque Currie Harbour for its music, surf, food and fun. This year’s line-up includes Mitch King, The Smokin’ Elmores and The Bad Dad Orchestra.
King Island in the Bass Strait is worth celebrating. (Image: Andrew Wilson)
Perth Festival in the WA capital is jam-packed with plenty for all, with events ranging from performance and music to film, literature and art. With both free and ticketed events, visitors can pull their own unique itinerary together based on not only their interests but their budgets too.
Amazing local and international artists will grace the stage, including Zambian sensation, Sampa the Great. Join a choose-your-own-adventure production or sit down for an intimate dinner party performance at His Maj.
Immerse yourself in the Perth Festival.
Experience the power of a small community creating something big at the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival in south west WA. For 36 years, the townsfolk of Boyup Brook have volunteered to put together the musical celebration by the Blackwood River.
Attendees can expect a ute and truck muster, street markets, bush poets and of course, lots of good ol’ country music.
Tug on your togs and get ready for the 19.7-kilometre open-water Rottnest Channel Swim from Cottesloe Beach to the iconic Rottnest Island. Paddlers and support boats are available throughout the long journey, with safety paramount to the event.
The event attracts a large crowd, with family and friends welcome to come down and check out the action. The annual Shirt Design Competition will continue in 2024 as well; get creative and you could win a $500 cash prize.
The Rottnest Channel Swim is highly regarded among WA residents.
Opening on 23 February and running until 14 April, the Dancer exhibition at the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery is a must-see. Celebrating the art of dance, the exhibition is all about the beauty of movement, self-expression and connection.
Collaboratively curated and choreographed by the National Portrait Gallery with a group of local dancers, Dancer features 50 exhibition prints and two audiovisual works. Tickets are required but are free of cost.
The largest arts festival in Australia is coming to Adelaide throughout February and into March. Every skerrick of the city is immersed in the arts, from comedians in pubs to forgotten tunnels covered in immersive projections and scandalous cabaret shows.
This month, attendees can experience theatre and dance shows, art and photography and of course, comedy, all on the program for 2024 – plus more.
The Fringe is one of Adelaide’s most popular events. (Image: Joshua Pathon)
Held along one of South Australia’s most picturesque stretches of coastline, Taste the Limestone Coast Festival is all about showcasing the region’s amazing home-grown flavours.
With plenty of pop-up stalls run by local businesses, live music and plenty of activities, this foodie hub in the town of Naracoorte is much loved by locals.
The Fleurieu Film Festival is a competitive short film festival held in McLaren Vale on the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula each year. The festival attracts an array of talented filmmakers who work across a variety of genres.
The 2024 finalists have already been announced, so you can look forward to some incredible films come screening night. On 4 February, attendees can join the Filming Fleurieu Country workshop ed by Mark Koolmatrie of Kool Tours.
Join in the celebrations of World Wetlands Day, which occurs every year to raise awareness around the importance of wetlands and biodiversity for both humans and the planet.
Wetlands make up a significant part of Kakadu National Park and they’re an integral part of its ecosystem, which must be conserved. Book a tour to discover more.
Wetlands are an integral part of the NT ecosystem. (Image: Tourism NT)
Join the Queer Collective NT for an amazing night at Mardi Gras Cabaret. Held at the popular rooftop bar The Reserve in Darwin, the event is an extravaganza of glitter, dancing, music and drag.
The line-up of drag queen divas is sure to get anyone excited, with some of Darwin’s best taking to the stage. After the show, stick around for the epic afterparty disco with local DJs keeping you hyped until the AM.
The Travelling Film Festival showcases Australian and international features, documentaries and short films in regional Australia, creating a program specific to each location. The 2024 program is looking good, with plenty of films touching on a range of different topics and themes.
This year, the program will open with All Of Us Strangers, a short film by Andrew Haigh and featuring global mega-star Paul Mescal. Tickets are on sale now.
Regional Australia is treated to short films and documentaries. (Image: Tourism NT/Charlie Bliss)
This year is the 26th anniversary of the National Multicultural Festival, a community-led event that celebrates the multiculturalism and diversity of Canberra in a kaleidoscope of culture, music, food and entertainment.
Opening the show will be Taikoz, a Sydney-based performing ensemble, joined by Papua New Guinean-born R’n’B artist Ngaiire. Cooking demonstrations, cultural workshops, market stalls and performances are to be expected as well.
This year will be the 26th anniversary of the festival. (Image: VisitCanberra)
The Royal Canberra Show is the city’s largest all-ages event, event, hosted annually by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society. While agriculture has remained at its core, the show has expanded to include rides, entertainment, educational features, exhibitions and plenty of food.
There’ll be something for the whole family at the Canberra Show. From the farmyard nursery, dog show and rides to the multitude of eateries offering up delicious local fare, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
There will be plenty of rides to choose from. (Image: Visit Canberra)
February is your last chance to see Transformations: Art of the Scott Sisters at the Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Gallery in Canberra. The Scott sisters, Harriet and Helena Scott, are known as two of Australia’s most prominent 19th-century natural history artists.
The exhibition showcases 35 reproductions of their watercolour paintings, plus animations of butterflies and moths based on original illustrations. The exhibition is free and finishes on 25 February.
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