17 December 2024
19 mins Read
It’s the beginning of a new year, and with that comes a fresh slate of exciting opportunities. From summer celebrations and foodie festivals to live music performances and iconic sporting events, set the tone for the year ahead with our state-by-state guide to January’s most epic events.
NSW | Vic | Qld | Tas | WA | SA | NT | ACT
Settle in for Sunset Sessions in Sydney this summer.
Every Saturday afternoon this summer, the historic Cockatoo Island is playing host to Sunset Sessions, a series of laid-back live music performances curated by The Music & Booze Co. Guests are invited to BYO picnic and laze on the lawns of Biloela House, which is backdropped by the glittering Sydney Harbour.
Let a line-up of emerging local artists, including Sarah Sykes and Watty Thompson, serenade you and your mates as the sun sets over the water. If you prefer catering, the Marina Cafe and Bar will be serving up food and refreshments for all.
Settle in for a flick at Flickerfest 2025.
Beginning as a small festival at Balmain High School in 1991, Flickerfest has grown into a popular Australian film festival. With an Academy® accredited and BAFTA-recognised competitive Australian and International Short Film Festival, over 3000 entries have already been received.
Held across 28 sessions in Bondi, there’s no better way to enjoy the creativity of film’s rising talents than in the summer on one of Sydney’s best beaches. Check the 2025 program to decide which category is up your alley, from comedy crack-ups and horror films to documentaries and animated gems.
Enjoy the live music performances at Centennial Vineyards. (Image: Destination NSW)
The picture-perfect town of Bowral is the place to be in January thanks to its summer music series, a line-up of live performances at the stunning Centennial Vineyards. Taking place across multiple days, some of the biggest names in music will take to the stage, including The Teskey Brothers (12 January) and Leon Bridges (19 January).
Position yourself in the front row for soulful performances by one (or both) of the artists. Add in gourmet food, premium Australian wines and breathtaking views across the Southern Highlands and you’re in for a real treat. Tickets are on sale now!
The festival attracts 15,000-plus Elvis fans and voyeurs annually.
You may do a double take when visiting the regional town of Parkes in NSW, as thousands of Elvis lookalikes fill its streets for five days each January. If you sport a leather jacket and slick your hair back, you’ll fit right in.
To honour the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Parkes Elvis Festival hosts an epic program of live performances, exhibitions, dance workshops, competitions and more, all in the name of Mr. Presley. Don’t forget your blue suede shoes!
Watch Australian-first screenings on Sydney’s stunning harbour.
Running across 41 nights from early January, the Westpac OpenAir cinema is one of our favourite outdoor cinemas across the country. Held on the iconic Sydney Harbour, the event promises a spectacular blend of film, food and family fun, backdropped by glittering water and the sparkling city.
The program features some of the most anticipated films of 2025, as well as 2024 favourites and a handcrafted selection of classics. There will also be multiple debut Australian screenings, including A Complete Unknown starring Timothée Chalamet as a young Bob Dylan and Nicole Kidman in Babygirl.
It’s the biggest night of the year on the town’s calendar. (Image: Tamworth Country Music Festival)
The 53rd annual Tamworth Country Music Festival will spotlight the rural NSW town this month, as usual. Home to over 2500 free and ticketed gigs across 120 venues, the festival gives country music lovers free access to some of Australia’s best country artists.
This year, there will be an array of live performances, as well as markets, street shows, tours of the town’s Country Music Wax Museum & Guitar Museum, a charity ball, and the iconic Golden Guitar Awards. It’s truly one of the best summer festivals in Australia.
Art & Architecture – First Nations Design is a 2025 program highlight.
The NSW capital comes alive at the beginning of each year with the Sydney Festival, celebrating culture, creativity and the questioning mind since 1977. From the streets to the beach, in theatres and basements across the city, experience over 130 free and ticketed events and performances.
Watch impactful shows at the Roslyn Packer Theatre. Test your circus skills at Darling Harbour workshops. Admire rare art exhibits like Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru at the Australian Museum. Or listen and learn at Vigil: Gunyah, an Indigenous-led, curated and designed gathering at Barangaroo Reserve. Whatever you do, you’re sure to leave with lasting memories.
Thredbo’s summer events calendar is full of exciting events.
Foodies, oenophiles and hop heads alike should head to the alpine resort town of Thredbo this month to indulge in the Snowies Beer Food & Wine Festival. Taste your way through the region’s finest produce, accompanied by local live music and interactive dining experiences.
Held in the village square, as well as at some of the town’s best restaurants, the flavour-driven event gives visitors access to Thredbo’s most-loved producers, winemakers, distillers and brewers. If you’re in town, stay a while and check out the stunning new Snowies Alpine Walk – it’s a must for hikers visiting the region.
The Australian Open puts you in the heart of the action.
One of the biggest events on Melbourne’s sporting calendar, the Australian Open sees the world’s best tennis players take to the court across 20 heated days. Internationally recognised players, such as Novak Djokovic and Australia’s own Alicia Molik, will battle it out across a range of divisions at Melbourne Park.
Whether you’re backing the champs or rooting for the underdog, each match will have you on the edge of your seat the whole game. Shake off that post-match tension at the three-day Finals Festival at John Cain Arena, featuring DMA’s, The Jungle Giants and more.
Loch Hart is known for its good vibes and great views. (Image: Ebony Wardlaw)
First held in 2018, the Loch Hart Music Festival has since become a favourite among locals for its cool atmosphere, epic location and stellar line-up of artists. And January will be no different, with the 8th rendition of the festivities set to be bigger and better than ever.
The 2025 festival rivals all that have come before it, including more than 30 live performances, sunrise yoga, stand-up shows, food trucks, market stalls, an outdoor cinema and more. Held annually in Princetown on the Great Ocean Road on Kirrae Whurrong Country, tickets for the music, arts and comedy festival are on sale now.
Lose yourself in Van Gogh’s timeless masterpieces. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Due to the record-breaking success of its original instalment, The Lume Melbourne is hosting the incredible Van Gogh exhibition for a limited-time summer season. Immerse yourself in the works of the post-impressionist, considered one of history’s most influential artists of all time.
While the returning Van Gogh brings back all the fan favourites from its previous edition, it also promises so much more. An undeniable highlight is the world-first virtual reality experience, which allows visitors to journey through the painter’s world alongside his brother, Theo.
Just off the coast of the southern coast of Victoria, Phillip Island is a natural playground for foodies, wildlife lovers, hikers and thrill-seekers alike. But come January, the pristine paradise turns into a hive of buzzy melomaniacs for the annual Ocean Sounds music festival.
Respect for the island’s residents (furry and otherwise), as well as its landscape and environment, are at the forefront of the festival’s ethos. Ocean Sounds balances this reverence with a line-up of like-minded artists; this year, it’s Birds of Tokyo, Boy & Bear, The Cat Empire and more.
Local brewery Little Creatures is just one of many stallholders. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Beer enthusiasts make haste, the 2025 Geelong Beer Festival is here! Everyone from pale ale pundits to stout aficionados is invited to Johnstone Park to sip their way through samples proffered by world-class Aussie breweries.
If beer isn’t your thing, fear not. Some of Australia’s best distillers, cideries and cocktail specialists will be in attendance too, ready to quench your thirst. There will also be live music performances and food trucks aplenty – could it get any better?!
Add Eastern Peake Vineyard to your Forage & Feast itinerary. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Calling all foodies! Make a trip to Victoria’s Central Highlands this month for Forage & Feast, then thank us later. The summer siesta is all about platforming local producers and the region’s incredible, largely undiscovered (and frankly unappreciated!) culinary scene.
Follow your tastebuds to interactive foodie workshops, long lunches, fine-dining degustations, farm tours, wine tastings and so much more. Forage & Feast forays into a number of stunning Victorian towns, from Ballarat to Beaufort and Daylesford to Denver.
Spaced Out Festival is all about celebrating both emerging and established artists across Australia and New Zealand, delivering epic artists and bands to your ears. Held at the iconic Felons Barrel Hall in Brisbane, this 18+ event will certainly kick your new year off with a bang.
Presented by Interstellar Music, the 2025 line-up features Dice, The Buoys, Daily J, Shag Rock and Full Flower Moon Band, among other talented artists. General admission tickets are on sale now; if you miss out, the festival is hitting up Byron Bay the next day.
The summer race will take place on Burleigh Beach. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)
Smash out your New Year’s resolutions early at the annual Burleigh Swim Run, a community event on one of the Gold Coast’s best beaches, based around fitness, family and fun. People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate and push their limits, with two adult courses to choose from.
The main event is the Challenge, a 400-metre swim followed by a four-kilometre beach run, which can be done solo or in teams. Then there’s the Taste Tester, a 200-metre swim and two-kilometre beach run perfect for beginners or those attending for fun. The Young Guns Challenge is aimed at little champions aged five to 12.
Suncorp Stadium is hosting the nail-biting match. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)
Practice your best support cheers before heading to Suncorp Stadium to watch Brisbane Roar take on the Newcastle Jets at one of the A-League’s first matches of 2025. The game is sure to be a nail-biter, with the two professional soccer clubs separated by only a few points on the match ladder.
The atmosphere will reach new heights in 2025, which marks the A-League’s 20th anniversary. Consequentially, it’s just one of many exciting matches set to take place in the new year – grab your tickets now and let’s go!
Movie buffs of all kinds join forces in the stunning Capricorn Coast town of Yeppoon to celebrate the Capricorn Film Festival, commonly known as the region’s premiere film and arts event. This year’s program promises big things; think everything from short film comps and masterclasses to networking events and feature film screenings.
Not only can attendees view an array of films across a wide range of genres, but discuss, debate and delve into the program with like-minded people, including directors, producers, filmmakers, creatives and other fans. Tickets are on sale now!
Cygnet Folk Festival has a stunning Tassie backdrop. (Image: Tourism Tasmania & Steven Pearce Photography)
Serving as one of Tasmania’s most iconic music events, the Cygnet Folk Festival is highly regarded by musicians and festival-goers alike. The community-driven affair showcases eclectic music genres from both local and international talent, along with busking, dancing and poetry.
Alongside attending an assortment of live performances, guests can browse local markets, indulge in local food and wine and attend workshops, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Huon Valley. Make a weekend of it by camping out at an additional cost.
Sample gin from Tassie’s top producers, including Killara Distillery. (Image: Jasper Da Seymour)
Calling all gin lovers — Tassie’s rising excellence in gin production will be celebrated in all its forms at the Gin-uary Festival. Held at Hobart‘s stunning Princes Wharf precinct, a variety of Tasmanian distillers are offering tastings of their finest tipples, just for you.
Of course, the iconic Gin-uary Bar will be onsite too, serving up unique G&Ts and gin cocktails throughout the festival. There will also be a variety of food trucks to feed hungry bellies. Tickets are on sale now!
Enjoy live music alongside a creative culinary program. (Image: Adam Gibson)
Held in Launceston‘s City Park, Festivale is a three-day community commemoration of the north-eastern city’s incredible foodie scene. To spice up the already-exciting culinary program, Festivale-goers can also enjoy an epic line-up of live music and local entertainment.
Guests are immersed in a variety of activities, from beverage masterclasses and chef demonstrations to stand-up comedy shows and countless stalls. Under historic elm trees decorated with hanging lights, family and friends can relax in the open space and enjoy the summer festivities.
Boogie to local live music at Good Gumnuts. (Image: Elijah Ian Anderson)
If the adorable name of this festival doesn’t automatically convince you to attend, the music line-up will. Taking to the stage at Good Gumnuts in the north-west town of Burnie is some of Australia’s best live acts, including Hockey Dad, San Cisco, Pacific Avenue, Betty Taylor and more.
Inclusivity is embraced here, with guests of all ages welcome to enjoy the good music and great vibes (minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times). If you’re keen to see all three days through, opt for a camping or caravan pass.
Get front-row seats to the best views of the night sky at Perth Observatory.
Head to the Perth Observatory this January and be shot into space (well, metaphorically) at the Intro to the Stars Festival. Put your astronaut boots on for historical tours, solar telescope viewings, celestial photography workshops and virtual reality videos.
Little ones are also encouraged to get hands-on by contributing to the Space Mural, a collaborative masterpiece that celebrates the wonders of the cosmos. Tickets are on sale now for two sessions, 11.30am–1:30pm and 1.30pm–4pm.
Experience the magic of Bunbury Fringe. (Image: Claire Vis)
Launched in 2017, the Bunbury Fringe has grown into one of Western Australia‘s most delightful arts events. The sole purpose of this festival of fun is to bring happiness to guests and cause as much laughter as possible, making it the epitome of a good time.
This year’s program is as jam-packed as ever – think garden gigs, dance parties, comedy shows, after-hours cabaret, yoga sessions and more. With so much to see, do, eat, drink and laugh at, you’d be positively silly to miss out on Bunbury Fringe 2025.
Participants will swim the picturesque Swan River. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
It seems January is the month of summer swim events (and with this heat, as it should be!). First held in 1912, Swim Thru Perth is Australia’s oldest open-water swim, only pausing for the World Wars, Polio and Covid. The course takes participants along the glittering Swan River and through the city of Perth.
There are three different races for participants to choose from: the 800-metre Matilda splash, the 1.6-kilometre classic mile and the 3.5-kilometre challenge – something to suit every level of athleticism. Although Perth has some fantastic beaches, the event is a great way to beat the heat this summer.
The kitchen at Howard’s Vineyard has nailed its dumplings. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)
The 2025 Rosé & Dumpling Festival hosted by Howard Vineyard is back again, celebrating all things rosé. Enjoy live music paired with delicious food and divine wine, set against the stunning backdrop of Adelaide Hills.
Get your friends together for all-day rosé paired with a delicious selection of hand-rolled dumplings, along with other foodie favourites. Tickets are on sale now, priced between $15 and $30 per person.
Grab your mates and head to Wildlands. (Image: @zennieshia)
Wildlands Festival will be hitting the South Australian capital come the new year, preceded by its Brisbane rendition, then hitting Perth to end with a bang. With Luude, The Jungle Giants, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, Boo Seeka and more taking to the stage, Wildlands is off the chain!
Featuring world-class production, iconic stage design, decor and arts, Wildlands offers attendees a day of immersive music and arts escapism unlike any other. There will also be food trucks and fully stocked bars to keep you fuelled throughout the festival.
Get ready to get foamed!
To be clean, first you have to get dirty, and that’s what the 5K Foam Fest is all about. Trudge through muddy bogs, climb the world’s largest inflatable waterslide and ultimately dive into 2.5 million cubic feet of foam, all in support of Make-A-Wish Australia.
After completing the race, take a shower onsite and enjoy the festivities. The festival village is sure to satiate your post-race appetite, while a live DJ will keep your residual adrenaline pumping.
2025 marks 25 years of the cycling spectacle. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
Celebrate 25 years of the Santos Tour Down Under by cheering on some of the world’s most legendary cyclists as they pedal it out for the winning trophy. Winding through some of the state’s most breathtaking scenery, the 1198-kilometre slog is a true popcorn-munching, nail-biting showdown.
Hungry for more? Check out the Santos Festival of Cycling, visit the Tour Village in Adelaide or attend the Vardon Avenue Street Party – the list goes on! In 2025, attendees are promised a packed itinerary, plus all the bike racing to match.
The masterclass allows guests a hands-on experience with gin distilling.
Treat yourself to a gin masterclass this new year at Charlie’s of Darwin, an exciting one-off experience of tasting and blending at the Darwin-based distillery door. For $150 per person, you’ll learn the true art of gin distilling, using unique botanicals from Darwin Distilling Co.
Once you’ve mastered four blends, pick your favourite and work with the experts to create your own 500ml bottle to take home and enjoy. The workshop is a great Christmas surprise to gift a gin-loving friend, or an opportunity to tackle a new hobby on your own.
The MAGNT exhibition will close on 27 January. (Image: Mark Sherwood)
Commonly referred to as NATSIAA, the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards is considered the longest-running and most prestigious Indigenous art event in the country. And in late January, it’s wrapping up after another successful edition.
Now in its 41st year, NATSIAA celebrates First Nations artists from all around Australia. Although the awards ceremony has passed, the public can still admire the artworks at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory until 27 January.
Run by the Australia Day Council of the Northern Territory, the Festival of Us is an inclusive celebration of the state‘s diversity, culture and history. Chaired by Larrakia man Dr Richard Fejo and made up of a multicultural board, the not-for-profit is all about inclusivity – a key pillar of the festival.
This year, the free community event is embracing its 2025 theme of Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. Beginning with a smoking ceremony by Larrakia families, the program also features workshops, market stalls and live performances by Arrkula Yinbayarra and more.
The annual Summernats car festival roars into town. (Image: Visit Canberra/Doug Dobing)
Revheads, get ready – the annual Summernats Car Festival is returning to Canberra in 2025. Considered Australia’s biggest horsepower party, the four-day car festival will take over Exhibition Park in the heart of the country’s capital, turning into any autophile’s dream.
From lawn mower racing and burnout shows to mullet competitions and live performances by Aussie icons, there’s so much to see and do at Summernats. This year’s stellar music line-up features Jet, Eskimo Joe, Thirsty Merc and more.
In the lead-up to the Australian Open, the Workday Canberra International is getting tennis lovers hyped with a range of exhilarating matches at the Canberra Tennis Centre. Across seven days, over 100 talented players from around the world will fight it out for championship titles.
Both genders will compete across singles and doubles tournaments for a total prize pool of over $500,000. In other exciting news, the inaugural Live & Loud site will launch in 2025, featuring local music, food trucks and a large screen to sit back and relax off-court.
Cancon is back in 2025, known as the country’s longest-running (and largest) tabletop gaming convention. Held at Exhibition Park, the epic event revolves around participation games, tournaments, trade stands, competitions, roleplay and a truly enviable games library.
Entry to Cancon is free for spectators, or those who simply want to check out the exciting array of stalls. However, those keen to participate must register and pay an entry fee for all tournaments, card games and role-play events, as well as access to the games library.
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