Events in Tasmania

TASMANIA'S TASTE OF SUMMER

As one of Tasmania’s most popular summer festivals, we’re bringing the best of the state’s food, drinks and local entertainment. Taking place on Hobart’s iconic waterfront, the Taste of Summer offers a memorable family-friendly experience, welcoming all Tasmanians and visitors alike. With a safe and spacious layout, this year’s festival is guaranteed to offer a sustainable, quality-driven event that showcases Tasmania’s wonderful and unique producers.

So come and fill a plate, raise your glass, and celebrate the Taste of Summer.

The Taste of Tasmania : TBC December 2024 - January 2025.

2024 SYDNEY TO HOBART YACHT RACE

The Sydney Hobart is a 628 nautical mile yacht race which begins in Sydney Harbour and finishes in Hobart.

Be part of the scene at one of the world's great blue water classics.

Each December you can see the world's greatest yachts charging through Sydney Heads as they take part in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Once through The Heads, they turn south knowing they are casting their fate to the might of the great Southern Ocean and the winds of the Roaring Forties. The 628 nautical mile course is described as one of the most gruelling ocean races in the world. Since 1945, this blue water classic has thrilled Australians.

Thousands line Sydney Harbour or form farewell flotillas to cheer the departing yachties. Days later, in Hobart, the excitement builds as news of who will be the first boat to arrive comes through.

2024 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race : 25 Dec 2024 - 2 Jan 2025.

NEW YEAR'S EVE IN ROYAL PARK

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style in Launceston’s picturesque Royal Park.

Gates open at 4.00 pm – 12.30 am featuring over 200 of the finest hand-crafted beers, ciders, cocktails and wines; perfectly complemented by the most decadent Tasmanian street eats. Plus live music featuring Tassie legends Luca Brasi and The Hype DJ set; live comedy, masterclasses, wine-food pairings and live demonstrations and two fireworks shows (9.30 pm and midnight).

Please visit beerfestivals.com.au

FESTIVALE

Festivale is Tasmania’s premium summer event, a three day celebration designed to showcase Tasmanian food, beverages and entertainment

Staged in Launceston’s iconic City Park, the ambiance of this outdoor event is unique. Held annually, Festivale attracts around 28,000 patrons and takes place on the first weekend of February. Originally established in 1988 as a multi-cultural street party, it has evolved into an iconic Tasmanian event, drawing people together to celebrate what Tasmania has to offer the world.

Festivale : TBC Feb 2025.

To book your travel and accommodation during Festivale, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

KUNANYI MOUNTAIN RUN

You’re invited to “run with kunanyi” – the famous mountain on Hobart’s doorstep that is rich in culture, history and incredibly diverse landscapes. The palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal community) generously welcome and share kunanyi with trail runners – whether you’re a seasoned ultra runner or reasonably new to running on trails. When you move through wet ferny gullies, dolerite boulder fields, eucalypt forests, or under the famous Organ Pipes, you’ll be invited to explore and create your own connection with the sacred mountain, and hear the stories of it too, across the 3-day festival with activities at the runHub.

To book your travel and accommodation during the event, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

TARGA 2025

Please visit targa.com.au

TARGA Tasmania gives you access to some of the world’s ultimate driving roads, where the most exciting challenges are waiting to be conquered. TARGA Tasmania travels over 2,000kms across seven days. Starting in Launceston, the course will take you around the island state of Tasmania; one of the world’s greatest wilderness locations.

For accommodation bookings during the event please contact our Groups Department on 03 6234 4666 or groups@tasvacations.com.

AGFEST MAY TBC 2025

Please visit agfest.com.au/

Agfest takes great pride in offering something for everyone to see and do. Whether you are in the market for new machinery, a new vehicle or just interested in seeing what is new on the market, Agfest is the place for you. Interested in history and where agriculture has come from? The Heritage Display is where you need to go to. Looking for a gift for Fathers Day? The Craft Pavilions showcase some of the best handmade craft Tasmania has to offer. And when you need to take a break, stop at one of our Quercus Tastes food areas where you can enjoy some great Tasmanian produce.

To book your travel and accommodation during AGFEST, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

TURNING OF THE FAGUS

The turning of the Fagus refers to its autumn foliage, which changes colour, creating a spectacular display of red, orange, and gold leaves. This typically occurs in late April to early May in the southern hemisphere, which is autumn in Tasmania. The best places to witness the turning of the Fagus in Tasmania include Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and Mount Field National Park. These parks are popular for hiking and provide opportunities to enjoy the stunning autumn colours of the Fagus.

Keep in mind that specific timing can vary each year based on weather conditions, so it's advisable to check local information closer to your intended visit for the most accurate details on the turning of the Fagus in Tasmania.

To book your travel and accommodation to view the Turning of the Fagus, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

WINTER FEAST 2025

The Winter Feast is a culinary extravaganza that celebrates Tasmania’s rich food culture and its finest produce. Set against the backdrop of Hobart’s stunning winter landscapes, this festival invites locals and visitors alike to indulge in a vibrant array of gourmet delights, ranging from freshly caught seafood to artisanal cheeses and locally sourced meats.

To book your travel and accommodation during The Winter Feast, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

FESTIVAL OF VOICES

Please visit festivalofvoices.com/

Festival of Voices, Australia's leading singing celebration, began in 2005 and has since grown into a symbol of warmth and community, drawing 30,000 people.

The Big Sing Bonfire, where it all started, remains a vital part, symbolizing the joy of singing together. The program includes diverse music styles, attracting global music lovers. Attendees can enjoy concerts, participate in learning sessions, and engage in informal singalongs, creating an immersive blend of entertainment and development for all who share a passion for singing.

To book your travel and accommodation during the Festival of Voices, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

BICHENO BEAMS

Please visit bichenobeams.com/

Powering up during the off-season, Bicheno Beams transforms into a family-friendly spectacle, a radiant celebration of light. Immerse yourself in the enchanting harmony of music as it resonates alongside the mesmerizing display of lights illuminating the night sky. Bicheno Beams is poised to establish itself as a must-attend annual gathering, attracting both locals and visitors to revel in the beauty of our cherished locale. The dedicated team of local volunteers will warmly welcome you and lead you to the optimal viewing area.

To book your travel and accommodation during Bicheno Beams, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

DEVONPORT JAZZ 2025

Celebrating its 24th anniversary, Devonport Jazz is set to reignite the spirit of music with a stellar festival lineup scheduled from July TBC 2025.
Embrace the winter season by venturing out to explore the city's cozy venues, as Devonport Jazz promises an enticing experience that will warm your soul. Don't miss the chance to be part of this musical celebration and indulge in the vibrant atmosphere that this long-standing festival has to offer!

For more details about the festival please visit www.devonportjazz.com.au

To book your travel and accommodation during Devonport Jazz, please contact us via email holidays@tasvacations.com or by calling 1300 827 822.

What's on at THE THEATRE ROYAL?

Theatre Royal Season 2024

The Theatre Royal is Australia’s oldest working theatre and one of its most beautiful treasures. In 2012 we celebrated the 175th anniversary of the first performance in 1837. Today the Theatre Royal is not just a piece of Tasmania’s history but a living centre for the performing arts. It presents an annual program of live theatre, contemporary music, dance and entertainment.

The Theatre Royal Box Office is open Monday to Friday from 9.00am – 5.00pm, or you can book online 24/7 – www.theatreroyal.com.au.

Click here to see what’s on while you’re in town.

HARVEST LAUNCESTON MARKETS

Meet the farmers, connect with locals and feast your eyes on baskets brimming with Tasmania's freshest seasonal produce, ethical meat and fish, local dairy, artisan bread and pastries, bright summer berries or blushing autumn apples. Savour a locally roasted coffee and taste your way around our foodie state at this vibrant weekly event before collecting a myriad of premium produce, cool-climate wines, artisan ciders and home-made preserves for the journey home.
Harvest Launceston Community Farmers' Market is held every Saturday from 8.30am until 12.30pm at 71 Cimitiere Street. Entry via Cimitiere Street or via Cameron Street, in the car park opposite The Grand Chancellor Hotel, Launceston.

Please visit harvestmarket.org.au/

SALAMANCA MARKETS

Salamanca Market showcases over 300 stallholders every Saturday and is an experience not to be missed. It’s the best place to find Tasmanian-designed and handmade products and discover the heart of a creative island. You will meet local artisans, designers, collectors and producers and discover the story behind the makers that make a visit to Salamanca Market so special.

Salamanca Market is the most visited tourist attraction in Tasmania and is open every Saturday from 8.30 am to 3 pm. The market is centrally located at historic Salamanca Place, nestled against historic Georgian sandstone warehouses. It is home to galleries, restaurants and cafes and is only a short stroll to the city centre. Salamanca Market is proudly owned and operated by the City of Hobart.

Please visit salamancamarket.com.au/home

HOBART TWILIGHT MARKETS

Hobart comes alive at the Hobart Twilight Market – a family and dog-friendly Friday night market showcasing the best of Tasmanian eats, drinks, design, and music. With live music showcasing homegrown talents, passionate stallholders who’ll share their story with you, and a thriving village atmosphere, the scene is set for a wonderful Friday night!

Hobart’s Friday night twilight market operates from Long Beach at Lower Sandy Bay overlooking the Derwent River on the first and second Fridays between November - March, and selected Fridays year-round at Brooke Street Pier. A perfect place to relax on a Friday night.

Visit the Hobart Twilight Market at 17 Beach Road, Sandy Bay and 12 Franklin Wharf, Brooke Street Pier

Please check hobarttwilightmarket.com.au for all dates and further detail