08 August 2024
22 mins Read
There are countless amazing experiences to be had throughout Australia this month.
Whether it’s a festival of food, a live music event, an art exhibition or a classic comedy show, August is full of epic events to keep you busy. To help you pick the best events for you, we’ve collated a guide of what’s on during the month of August.
NSW | Vic | Qld | Tas | WA | SA | NT | ACT
When your parents told you not to play with fire, what they actually meant was… let someone else do it for you! This August, the annual Orange Winter Fire Festival will prove yet again why this NSW region is recognised as an official foodie destination.
Over two weekends, you can enjoy the festivities through a series of epic events. Maybe you’ll opt for a baking workshop with Hillside Harvest Orchard. Or attend a traditional Wassail. Why not sit down for a three-course banquet at Rowlee Wines? Whatever you choose, producers are really turning up the heat this year, so expect unique experiences that will have you counting down until the next.
Sit down for a three-course banquet at Rowlee Wines.
Celebrate Father’s Day by taking Dad out to MISC in Parramatta – trust us, it’ll be his new favourite present. In collaboration with Tomatin Whisky, the buzzy Mediterranean-style restaurant is hosting Steak & Scotch, a self-explanatory dinner package perfect for a family outing this Father’s Day.
The three-course meal features foccacia, a one-kilogram rib-eye steak and the Tomatin Bombe Alaska, which is infused with the delicious single-malt scotch. Enjoy dinner with a glass of Tomatin or a delicious whisky-based cocktail. The set menu is priced at $115 per person.
The collaboration comes just in time for Father’s Day.
Oenophiles, save the date! Wines of the West is taking over The Carrington in the lovely Blue Mountains town of Katoomba. Wander around the historic building, tasting wines from local cellar doors across the Central West, including Dryridge Estate and Twisting River Wines.
As well as sampling top drops, you’ll be able to chat directly with winemakers and buy your favourite bottle to take home. The day before the festival, visitors can also attend the Mystery Dinner, an exclusive dining experience showcasing local produce.
Both events will be held at the historic Carrington. (Image: Destination NSW)
Sydneysiders should head down to the harbour this month to partake in Forage The Rocks. The month-long annual foodie festival is free to attend and jam-packed with fun things to do, all centred around good food and wine.
There’s a cocktail trail, live jazz sessions, markets, mixology masterclasses and more. So what are you waiting for? Grab a group of your friends and follow your tastebuds through one of Australia’s most historic precincts.
Forage The Rocks is all about good food and wine.
Get ready to be inspired when TEDxSydney Youth comes to Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre this August. After a successful run in 2023, the event is back, bringing with it a handful of amazing Aussie talents set to take the stage.
Under the theme CTRL > SHIFT, speakers will discuss the current and future challenges their generation faces, from the cost of living crisis to climate change. You can expect compelling talks from Chloé Hayden, James Parr and Elliot Ulm – plus many more inspiring young Australian voices.
Head to Riverside Theatre to see young Aussies inspire.
A global floral phenomenon is hitting the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney this month, and it’s a must-see for all flower fiends. Across just 10 days, Fleur De Villes: Voyage will take over The Calyx with 15 one-of-a-kind fresh floral mannequins.
Inspired by a range of beautiful landscapes around the world – from Morocco’s enchanting souks to the gardens of Kyoto, Japan – the exhibit is sure to delight. Sydney’s favourite florists will be behind the mannequins, including Violette and Ivy, Abigail Grace Floral Design, Belfield Blooms, Hayfever Flowers and more.
Admire the 15 flower-clad mannequins at The Calyx.
You’re in for a night full of belly laughs if you head out to see comedic genius Jim Jefferies in Newcastle this month. After touring his show, Give ‘Em What They Want, around the world, the comedian is bringing it home.
For one night only, Jefferies will be live on stage at the Civic Theatre in Newcastle. Fans across Australia will have the opportunity to see the show as well, as the tour will continue to make its way around the country.
The comedian will be in Newcastle on 13 August. (Image: Dominque Ross)
If you love dogs, this one is clearly for you – it’s in the name! The 2024 Dog Lover’s Festival is coming to Sydney and will be held at Sydney Showground. Over 800 dogs will be unleashed across a variety of paw-some events, from mini dog races to an adoption zone.
Whether you have a pooch yourself or simply just love dogs, it’s going to be a barking good time. And for those who prefer feline friends, the Cat Lover’s Festival will be running at the same time, right next door!
Make new furry friends at the Dog Lover’s Festival.
Join astrophysicist Dr Angel Lopez-Sanchez on level 32 of the InterContinental Sydney this month for Astronomy Nights. Held at the popular Aster rooftop bar, the guided tour of the night sky will see you pointing out constellations and possibly even spotting shooting stars.
Guests will also be treated to a selection of delicious canapes, a main and three drinks, including a glass of Champagne on arrival. The exciting pop-up includes high-powered telescopes, star maps and cosy blankets. Tickets are priced at $140 per person, which includes paired cocktails and small plates.
Aster bar offers amazing views of the night sky from the 32nd floor.
Are you ready for an epic quest? Grab your Book Week costume and your map and join Yoto for a thrilling treasure trail through mystical mazes, foggy bogs, rolling fields and the magical woods of the beautiful Centennial Parklands.
To celebrate Book Week 2024 and the launch of kid’s audio brand Yoto in Australia, kids aged three to 12 (and their grown-ups) are invited to unlock their imaginations for a morning of stories, music, adventure and treasure for all. The event is free, however registration is required.
Known as the muscat capital of the world, Rutherglen in regional Victoria is hosting the new Dark Side of Wine festival this month. For 10 days only, a series of immersive experiences will lure oenophiles to the well-known winemaking region for a delightful line-up.
Think warm bonfires, live music, dining experiences, winemaking masterclasses and stargazing sessions, plus, of course, wine! Delve into delicious and dark drops from local cellar doors, with muscat and durif at the heart of the festival program.
Discover hidden Rutherglen wineries along the way.
This year, the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) will hold events around the city and regional Victoria. The captivating program will run across 18 days and feature more than 250 films from over 62 countries.
Movie buffs will be spoilt for choice, with international films, Aussie debuts, adorable animations, moving documentaries, panel discussions and special events all on the cards. Explore the extensive program to learn more about what you can see and where.
A variety of special events are on the program for MIFF.
Melbourne is welcoming Now or Never back for another year after a successful debut in 2023. The 10-day festival is designed to invigorate the city and boost the local economy with art trails, sculptural illuminations and projections, panel talks and an epic line-up of gigs. And you’re invited.
From Melbourne Recital Centre to the city’s Town Hall, you’ll witness international artists, change-makers and innovators doing their thing. Grab your tickets now to join the fun as art, ideas, sound and technology combine.
Now or Never returns after a successful debut.
What better time to celebrate a soul-warming, full-bodied shiraz than winter? Geelong is taking advantage of this perfect combination with the aptly named Winter Shiraz Festival, a celebration of the region’s tantalising rendition of the popular grape variety.
Expect hearty winter fare made from local produce, live music, masterclasses from passionate local vignerons and, of course, shiraz! Participating wineries include Oneday Estate, Scotchmans Hill, Provenance Wines, Jack Rabbit Vineyard and more. Tickets for a variety of vino-themed events are on sale now.
Scotchmans Hill is just one of the participating wineries.
Foodies – this one is for you. The annual Ballarat Best Pie Competition has become a regional stalwart, garnering a gathering of visitors each year who are keen to try the town’s potential best pie.
This year, 20 pies from 19 local chefs and restaurants are vying for the title, from savoury ones like beef and Guinness to sweeter treats such as the classic apple crumble pie. Head to Ballarat to taste and cast your vote – you may just pick the winner!
This year, there are 20 pies vying for the title of best pie.
The Sunshine Coast’s renowned produce will be the highlight of The Curated Plate this August. Local tourism and events operators, restaurants and farms are teaming up to present authentic experiences designed to showcase local produce from the sea to the hinterland.
The Asian Food Festival, a signature event of the program, will round out the festivities from 3 to 4 August at Spicers Tamarind Retreat. Executive Chef Dan Jarrett has invited two other Sunshine Coast restaurants, The Spirit House Rice Boi to join him at the street food markets-style event.
The three chefs will come together for an unforgettable event.
This month, the eighth edition of Taste Port Douglas is set to deliver a smorgasbord of culinary masterclasses, signature dinners and unique dining experiences to this tropical paradise. It is promised to be a culinary celebration like no other, with over twenty main food and drink events on offer.
The 2024 line-up is set to impress, with talent including Calin Fassnidge, Manu Feildel, Adam D’Sylva and Telina Menzies keen to make an appearance. Expect tutored tastings and educational experiences for an immersive understanding of Tropical North Queensland‘s food bowl, plus so much more.
The Festival Village is the place to be during the day.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival celebrates the Great Barrier Reef and what it means to live in the Whitsundays – the Heart of the Reef. The region’s favourite festival is a delicious combination of family fun, all-night celebrations, local food and some of the biggest parties in the north.
The four-day celebration will feature live music, carnival rides, food stalls, night markets and more. Other events include immersive art installations, a lantern parade, fireworks on the foreshore and reef experiences with certified guides.
Celebrate the Great Barrier Reef with fireworks on the foreshore.
Hamilton Island Race Week is a premier yachting fixture and an annually anticipated event on the international sailing calendar. Competitors, family and friends come from around the world to race together and enjoy Hamilton Island’s beautiful weather, brilliant beaches and coral reefs.
For those who prefer to stay on shore, sample fine food and wine, swim in azure waters and take part in a fun-filled week of activities whilst racing is underway. For example, why not join chefs Trisha Greentree and Danielle Alvarez, plus winemaker Larry Cherubino, at Catseye Beach for a special food and wine experience?
Witness the sailing yachts take to the waters off Hamilton Island.
Following its iteration at last year’s Wynnum Fringe, the Quandamooka Music & Cultural Festival is returning to Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) for its first full-scale event since 2022. The festival is all about immersing in one of the oldest living cultures on earth and caring for Country.
Attendees can look forward to live music performances by Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung woman Jem Cassar-Daley, Uncle Joe Geia and Quandamooka musician Sachem. There will also be cultural activities, tours, Kunjiel (corroborees), food stalls, workshops, panel discussions and more.
Witness live cultural dances at Quandamooka Festival.
Now in its 13th year, Bleach* Festival is an annual contemporary arts festival on the glorious Gold Coast. Attracting over 400 Australian and international creatives, it’s the perfect place for the artistic and imaginative to meet and share ideas.
This year, the program features over 30 shows and 110 performances of music, dance, theatre and art installations, including eight world premieres. BLEACH* will be held at four festival hubs: North Burleigh, Broadbeach Cultural Precinct, HOTA and the Tallebudgera Valley.
Take part in a range of art-driven activities. (Image: Claudio Kirac)
A grand celebration of science and art, Beaker Street Festival is returning to the streets of Hobart for what is sure to be another amazing year. A meeting place for curious minds, the festival gives attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the art and science of everyday life.
The 2024 program will include over 70 exciting events, from ice-cold pool plunges to climate change conversations and aurora alerts. As part of Beaker Street Festival, guests are encouraged to dive deep into Tassie’s stunning east coast, with a two-night getaway to Piermont Retreat.
Participate in thrilling science-based events with Beaker Street Festival.
Seeking to influence the trajectory of the Australian agri-food and tourism sectors, agriCULTURED joins farming families with chefs, artists and musicians. Once together, everyone celebrates the passion that goes into producing, farming and food provenance in Launceston and beyond.
This year’s program focuses on sustainability, paddock-to-plate production and heritage. Industry trailblazers will lead the conversation over the course of the festival, including Paul West, Natalie Collard, Beau Rapley and Joanne Dean.
Attend a Meet the Producers Dinner for culinary conversations. (Image: Ness Vanderburgh)
Whisky lovers, you really don’t want to miss this. Tasmanian Whisky Week is not only an opportunity for Tassie distillers to showcase their finest drops but for you to come along to try ’em and buy ’em.
Tasmanians from across the state can participate, as events are hosted statewide. From Launceston and Hobart to Four Mile Creek and Burnie, whisky will be spilled for all to enjoy. Think masterclasses, dinners and panel talks, along with a whisky cruise in Peppermint Bay, a distillery tour on the Tasman Peninsula and more.
Sample some of Tassie’s best whiskies. (Image: Lusy Productions)
Don’t have plans on the first Friday of August? Well, now you do! Thank us later. Head out to the stunning Josef Chromy cellar door near the city of Launceston and treat yourself to Festa Tartufo, a delectable five-course dinner.
Behind the divine experience is executive chef Nick Raitt, who will be exploring the nuances of truffles through impactful ingredients and flavours. Paired, of course, with incredible Josef Chromy wines, this is one winter event not to miss. Tickets are on sale now, priced at $160 per person.
Perth’s vibrant bar scene is set for a shakeup with the new Perth Cocktail Weekend as part of the Plateful Perth 2024 program. Three of the city’s top cocktail bars, Songbird Bar, Terrarium and Mechanics Institute, are being taken over by some of the World’s 50 Best Bars for one weekend only.
Guests can experience the artistry of talented bartenders from Galaxy Bar, Dubai (50) at Songbird; Salmon Guru, Madrid (16) at Terrarium; and Maybe Sammy (15) x El Primo Sanchez at Mechanics Institute. There will also be other exclusive events, such as masterclasses, for everyone to participate in. Cheers to that!
Sample a variety of delicious cocktails at three top Perth bars.
Food lovers from Western Australia and beyond can seek out a unique culinary experience at the Gascoyne Food Festival in the state’s north-west. The region is known for its production of a kaleidoscope of ingredients that come together to create new and unique flavours.
The festival is set against the backdrop of the mighty Gascoyne River and the red dirt of the fertile horticultural lands and desert. Those attending will love the jam-packed program this year, featuring talented chefs, interactive activities and, of course, delicious food.
This foodie fest is set against the backdrop of the mighty Gascoyne River.
Also known as the Festival of the Pearl, Shinju Matsuri celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of Broome and the surrounding Kimberley region, which was enriched by the Broome pearl industry in the late 1800s.
This year’s program is bigger than ever, with the Shinju Matsuri Opening Ball, Chinatown Feast, Sunset Cocktail Party and Sunset Long Table Dinner all enticing locals and visitors alike. There will also be cultural tours, art exhibitions, live performances and a series of gourmet dining experiences from some of WA’s top chefs.
Shinju Matsuri celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of Broome. (Image: Yaruman5)
CraftAlive is one of the city’s biggest craft fairs, and it’s back for another year of creativity and community in 2024. Held at the Claremont Showground in Perth, the fair provides a great opportunity to learn from world-class specialists with interactive classes.
There will also be over 70 exhibitors from around the state for attendees to meet with, from embroidery experts to sewers, quilters, bookbinders and woodworkers. An onsite cafe serving food and hot drinks will keep eager creatives going for four days.
Learn from world-class specialists with interactive classes.
Fremantle’s warming winter festival, 10 Nights in Port, will set the town aglow again this year with music, sensory splendour, fire and art. At the heart of the festival is a deep consideration of ways to lighten and brighten each other’s lives, showcase unique local stories and focus on pathways forward.
Curated by creators and cultural leaders, this year’s program features both old favourites and new experiences. Check out live music performances, artist panels, workshops cabaret and more. Tickets are on sale now!
Fremantle has a lively cultural and art scene. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Take your tastebuds on a journey at the Fleurieu Food Festival this month on the stunning peninsula of the same name in South Australia. The festival is all about showcasing the wonderful array of local produce and the businesses that use it across the region.
Guests can experience over 60 epic events, including foodie farm stays, truffle hunting, cooking classes, walking tours and so much more. Throughout the month, Smiling Samoyed Brewery will also be hosting Super Sunday Sessions full of good beer, food and live music.
The month-long festival takes place at a range of local venues. (Image: Lloyd Brothers)
Celebrate man’s best friend and meet dogs from all walks of life through this carefully curated collection of canine stories at the Top Dog Film Festival. From husky dogs in Alaska to the working dogs of Australia, a pull on your heartstrings is pretty much guaranteed.
Bring the tissues, as tears of both joy and sorrow are promised throughout the two-hour screening. Each film highlights the very best of this year’s four-legged heroes and canine companions. Furry friends are also welcome. You’d be barking mad to miss it!
Celebrate man’s best friend at the Top Dog Film Festival.
Never Never Distilling Co. in South Australia’s stunning McLaren Vale region is hosting the event of the year… if you like oysters and gin that is. For its third year in a row, OysterPalooza is back for another round of fun, and you’re invited.
Prepare for a weekend filled with smacking lips, satisfied sighs and nods of approval. From live oyster shucking to drink specials and music performances, lovers of this briny bivalve will be in their element. Be sure to try a ‘Shellie’ – Never Never’s frozen Oyster Shell Gin served in a fresh oyster shell.
Try a ‘shellie’ to experience a salty-citrus explosion of flavours. (Image: Meaghan Coles)
Celebrate South Australia’s locally grown talent at the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) festival. Meet artists from all walks of life as they come together to showcase a wide range of exhibitions and artistic workshops around the state.
Guests can expect open studios, tours, workshops and more from Adelaide to Mount Gambier, Port Lincoln to Ceduna. It’s a great opportunity for art lovers to congregate and collaborate, platforming creatives who contribute so much to South Australia’s cultural landscape.
One of Australia’s largest First Nations visual art events is returning for another exciting year. Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) is all about platforming the rich diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, design and culture through art and performance.
DAAF creates an opportunity to connect with and ethically purchase art directly from Indigenous artists, with all profits going back to the artists and their communities. Meet the artists and learn first-hand about their cultural heritage, stories and history.
DAAF is one of Australia’s biggest and most celebrated Indigenous art fairs.
Darwin Festival is the Top End’s favourite time of year, and it’s now officially just around the corner! Australia’s hottest (literally and figuratively) winter arts festival combines the quintessential spirit of the NT’s capital with warm outdoor festivities.
Spend balmy nights under twinkling lights, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable tropical winter. Darwin Festival will intoxicate the senses with an epic program; think live music, theatre shows, cabaret, comedy, dance and so much more.
Enjoy the community feel of Darwin Festival. (Image: Helen Orr)
On 10 August this year, under the evening sky of Larrakia Country in Darwin, the National Indigenous Music Awards will celebrate the finest in First Nations talent. Those attending can expect a huge night of performances as part of the award ceremony.
This year, the event celebrates its 20th anniversary, so expect a star-studded line-up including some of Australia’s leading musicians. Think Jessica Mauboy, Dan Sultan and Arrkula Yinbayarra, alongside many other talented special guests. Get your tickets quickly!
Witness amazing artists receive awards for their contributions to music. (Image: Mitch Fresta)
Get excited – the annual Garma Festival is returning this August! The Yothu Yindi Foundation brings East Arnhem Land to life with an edifying program that expresses and shares Yolngu life and culture.
The four-day event invites people from all walks of life to celebrate and immerse in the power of storytelling, miny’tji (art), manikay (song) and bunggul (dance). Tickets to the 24th Garma Festival are on sale now and selling out fast, so don’t miss out!
Celebrate Yolngu culture at Garma. (Image: Melanie Faith Dove)
The Telstra National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) has recently announced its 72 finalists ahead of the official opening ceremony this August. Now in its 41st year, NATSIAA features Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and their works from across the nation.
The winners are set to be announced at Darwin’s iconic Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Following the ceremony, all artworks by the finalists will be showcased in an exhibition, which will run until 27 January 2025. We wish each artist good luck!
All artworks are displayed at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Hosted by the Canberra Potters, Fired Up is an exciting winter festival celebrating the city’s local pottery community. Whether you’re an experienced ceramicist or just getting started, you’re invited to come down and get your hands dirty (with clay, of course)!
Attendees can take part in a variety of ceramics-based fun, from workshops with pottery experts to open studios and live demonstrations. Nab something nifty to take home at the Ceramics Market and Shop, where local artists will be selling handmade wares.
Attend live demonstrations to see experts in action. (Image: Regan Pearse)
Art lovers are in for a treat – this much-loved mini-art competition is back for its 18th year this August. Held at Strathnairn Arts in Canberra, Squares showcases a range of 30 x 30 centimetre canvases submitted by local artists and invites the public to vote on a winner (unfortunately, entries are now closed).
After a record 319 entries last year, 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever. Voting is open from 24 August to 21 September, with the winner announced at an awards ceremony on 22 September. Throughout this time, the exhibition is open to the public at Woolshed Gallery.
Running over the last weekend in August at EPIC (Exhibition Park in Canberra), Oz Comic-Con is inviting you to enjoy an awesome program of events and special guests. Don your favourite cosplay outfit or chuck on your favourite piece of merch to enjoy a jam-packed two days.
There will be lip-sync battles, cosplay competitions, panel discussions, live performances and plenty of stalls where you can purchase goodies. Whether you’re heading there with friends or keen to meet new people, you’re sure to have a blast.
Oz Comic-Con brings together people of all ages. (Image: Evan Watson)
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