12 March 2025
20 mins Read
There are some spectacular events popping up across the country in March. With summer drawing to a close and autumn officially arriving, it seems like it’s the month of beach-based fun, with each state getting the most out of the sun before it cools down. And while I love an Aussie summer, I can’t wait for this season’s annual events – wine weekends, regional foodie festivals, and scenic autumnal road trips are at the top of my to-do list. A number of highly anticipated events take place in March as well, plus a few big announcements from those behind some of Australia’s annual calendar highlights.
NSW | VIC | QLD | TAS | WA | SA | NT | ACT
Join sunrise yoga sessions on the beach. (Image: Daniel Kukec)
If you live in Sydney, you’re likely a fan of the sea. So why not dive into the Ocean Lovers Festival this year and stand up for what’s important – conserving our ocean for generations to come? Now in its fifth year, the Bondi-born event is expanding in 2025 to include more of Sydney’s beautiful beaches in the hopes of inspiring, educating and encouraging the wider community. Join the movement by attending a beach clean-up at Bondi or a microplastics hunt in Manly, as well as marine restoration workshops, yoga sessions, sustainable cooking classes, charity swims, panel talks and more. Let’s turn these ripples into waves of change!
Taste fresh-as-can-be oysters on the Sapphire Coast. (Image: David Rogers Photography)
The picturesque town of Merimbula on NSW’s stunning Sapphire Coast is home to EAT Festival, a four-day indulgence of the region’s freshest local produce. Sandwiched between the ocean and bushland, the foodie fest is all about tide-to-table and paddock-to-plate philosophies. From 10 am to 2 pm, attendees can taste their way through local ingredients, meet talented local chefs and explore hidden coastal gems. Hungry for more? Be sure to add the town’s flavour-packed oyster trail to your itinerary, which snakes along some of the region’s most stunning waterways.
In a cool twist of fate, the 2025 Alliance Française French Film Festival is scheduled to coincide with Paris Fashion Week. Can’t make it to the City of Light? Embrace a little slice of Europe closer to home by enjoying a dose of French culture on the silver screen instead. Program highlights include Beating Hearts, which screened at the Cannes International Film Festival last year, and Prodigies, which is based on a true story of obsession and sibling rivalry.
Great Southern Nights will host a variety of live gigs across NSW.
Gig-goers of all kinds will be thrilled to learn that travelling music festival Great Southern Nights is returning with another star-studded line-up. A variety of talent will be taking to the stage in 2025, including Budjerah, Hoodoo Gurus, Kate Miller-Heidke, King Stingray, Matt Corby and Xavier Rudd. Events will be held over 17 nights in regions across NSW, such as Sydney, Bathurst, Newcastle, Tamworth, Wollongong and more. Tickets for gigs are on sale now!
Watch local surfers hit the waves in the beachside suburb of Cronulla.
Former pro surfer Blakey Johnston made history in 2023 by surfing for 40 hours straight at Cronulla’s Alley, surpassing the previous world record by more than 10 hours. Now, he’s set to put the Sydney suburb on the global stage again, guiding 1000 individuals as they take to the waves, arms linked as one, to break the record for the World’s Biggest Paddle Out to aid youth mental health. The unmissable event will be followed by the annual Cronulla Surf Festival, featuring a live music line-up, demo day, tag-team surfing event and vintage surfboard exhibition. Cowabunga!
Enjoy moving performances by renowned ensembles and local talent. (Image: Aisleen Moxey)
Artists from across both Australia and the world come together each year for the Orange Chamber Music Festival, held across the cosy Central West region of NSW. But this isn’t just a regular music festival. The annual event is all about classical instrumental ensemble music, known for its atmospheric sound and its intimate performances. The 2025 program features everything from conversational cafe concerts to artistically themed performances, so lovers of the genre will be spoilt for choice.
Barangaroo has been transformed into an urban beach for the outdoor cinema.
Get the most out of summer before it ends by hitting up the Mov’in Bed Beach Cinema in the heart of Sydney for a fun flick under the open sky. Each night from Wednesday to Sunday, everything from the latest blockbusters to old Hollywood classics is broadcast on the big screen in Barangaroo, which has been transformed into a beach with 280 tonnes of sand. Guests can get cosy on air-filled mattresses covered in blankets, snack on treats served directly to your bedside and immerse themselves in the world of cinema.
Wander through a variety of beautiful begonias.
The heartland of Victoria will blossom once again as the Begonia Festival returns to Ballarat over the Labour Day long weekend. The three-day event embraces the city’s thriving, creative community and showcases its signature collection of rare begonias. The 2025 program includes colourful installations, fine food purveyors, markets, live music and activities for kids. Visitors can also witness The Last Numbat for the first time on Australia’s east coast, created by the renowned Spare Parts Puppet Theatre.
Prep your palate for the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. (Image: Dasha Kud)
Taste your way through the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, an all-out edible extravaganza running over 10 days across Victoria and its cultural capital city. The mouth-watering program is full of delicious events, including Australia’s only Michelin-starred dining experience. Guests should also save room for whiskey masterclasses, bread-baking workshops, makers markets and more. It doesn’t matter what your foodie niche is, there’s a flavour for every palate.
Join Bridge Road Brewers in the picturesque town of Beechworth to celebrate the Victorian hop harvest season at The High Country Hop. Set against the rolling rural hills of Victoria’s High Country, the boutique festival platforms budding brewers from across the region, spotlighting the latest unique ales made using fresh, locally sourced hops. Local winemakers and distillers are invited to the party as well, complete with a live music line-up.
Explore different flavours at the Herb & Chilli Festival.
The annual Herb & Chilli Festival is returning to Wandin in the Yarra Valley this March. Flavour-chasers can sample their way around over 80 stalls touting a variety of different cuisines, from Asian fare to Cajun flare. But it’s not all about the ingredients. This year’s program is jam-packed with plenty of other crowd-pleasing events, including live Andean folk music, Mexican masked wrestling and, of course, a classic wing-eating competition.
ChillOut Festival is the biggest Queer Pride event in regional Australia.
ChillOut Festival is Victoria’s answer to Mardi Gras, swapping out big city vibes for a more down-to-earth atmosphere that still retains the hype all the same. Starting from humble beginnings, the festival has now grown to become the biggest Queer Pride event in regional Australia with its exciting line-up of free and ticketed events. Think pool parties, bush dances and burlesque shows, as well as the unmissable street parade, happening all across Daylesford. Join Chillout Festival this year and encourage tolerance, understanding and inclusion of regional Victoria’s LGBTQIA+ community.
The Birdman Rally is a hilarious Moomba Festival highlight. (Image: Chris Phutully)
Moomba is an iconic Melbourne festival known as one of the country’s largest free community events focused on people, families and accessibility for all. Everyone from tiny tots to adults are catered for, from thrilling carnival rides and delicious food offerings to interactive workshops and live entertainment, plus so much more. The annual Birdman Rally is always a crowd-pleaser, too; watch as participants test out homemade gliders by flying out over, and eventually into, the Yarra River.
Take part in a wine tasting with Pfeiffer Wines. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Indulge in a weekend of well-deserved wining and dining at Tastes of Rutherglen, featuring 17 of the region’s best cellar doors and over 200 tipples to taste. Pairing the Rutherglen’s top drops with locally sourced ingredients, guests can enjoy lunches, wine tastings, masterclasses, live music sessions and behind-the-scenes experiences, all backdropped by rolling vineyards in the autumnal sun. There will also be a ticketed shuttle bus, so you can winery-hop without a care in the world. It’s truly one of the best things to do in Rutherglen.
The World Science Festival takes place in Brisbane each year. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)
Embrace your inner Einstein at the Queensland Museum’s 2025 World Science Festival in Brisbane. Between a solid selection of paid events and free activities, your interest is sure to be piqued by some of the subject’s most spell-binding topics. Both young and old can learn about everything from robotics to insects, exoplanets to anatomy, dinosaurs to fungi, and more. The 10-day event highlights the museum’s position as a leader in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as well as its efforts to educate and engage the public on an incredibly important discipline.
Cheer brave pups along as they take to the waves. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)
Evolving from a longboarding contest back in 1992, the Noosa Festival of Surfing now sees pros and newcomers alike battle it out on some of the Sunny Coast’s best sets. Loosely based on France’s Biarritz Surf Festival, the annual sporting event attracts record levels of competitors and thousands of spectators down to the shoreline. This year’s contest will take place at First Point, one of Noosa’s best swimming spots. Witness surfing legends do their thing before grabbing a drink from the beach bar, catching some local live music or taking part in a training session. Be sure to catch the annual Surfing Dog Championships on 15 March; it’s a barking-mad time.
Enlighten your taste buds with locally grown exotic fruits at Feast of the Senses.
Discover the riches hiding in Tropical North Queensland‘s backyard at Feast of the Senses 2025, held in the jaw-dropping Cassowary Coast region. Here, the spotlight is on locally sourced produce and exotic fruits, but attendees can also sample the region’s best meat, seafood, herbs, spices and wine. Meander your way around the town of Innisfail via various events, from guided walks and food-focused trails to trivia nights and live music delights. Fun fact: Feast of the Senses is the Guinness World Record holder for the world’s longest banana split, recorded at a whopping eight kilometres in length – add that to our list of Australia’s Big Things!
The cosmic light and sound walk was designed by global studio Moment Factory.
Popular for its extensive of list of beaches and collection of thrilling theme parks, the Gold Coast is introducing another exciting reason to visit. Astra Lumina at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is an otherworldly journey where Australia’s beautiful bushland meets a symphony of light, sound and magic. The self-guided walks weave through the wildlife park, illuminated by immersive light projections and soothing soundscapes. Designed by global entertainment studio Moment Factory, it’s the first and only Astra Lumina installation in the southern hemisphere.
ECHO Festival is the epitome of cosy autumnal celebrations. (Image: Sarah Rhodes)
Heal your soul in the charming seaside village of Swansea at the East Coast Harvest Odyssey Festival, commonly known as ECHO. In the quiet rural countryside that unfolds at the edges of this quiet town, chefs, winemakers, producers, creatives and artists all come together to celebrate the vital rhythms of life. The amazing program has been curated to assist in restoring your body’s connection to the land and its inner sense of calm through peaceful activities and events. Think native bounty feasts, blacksmithing workshops, morning yoga, painting classes, bush food talks, writer’s corners, gin masterclasses and more.
Get a taste of Tassie’s fresh produce at the one-day foodie fest. (Image: Cagdas Aygun)
The Tasmanian Garlic & Tomato Festival platforms local and seasonal produce from across the state by bringing families and communities together through food culture. This is the first year the festival celebrates at its new home, Quamby Estate in Hagley, an agricultural town with a population of just 150 people. It will draw plenty of hungry visitors who can attend workshops, produce competitions, cooking demonstrations, farm tours and dining experiences that will help to boost local small businesses. A program highlight is the Long Table Lunch, expertly prepared by Quamby Estate’s talented head chef Zeb Gilbert.
Look out onto Hobart as you make your way up the mountain. (Image: Tourism Australia)
With run clubs and marathon holidays on the rise in 2025, the kunanyi Mountain Run is the perfect excuse to get down to Tassie and up your step count. The three-day experience is one of Hobart’s best outdoor adventures, aimed at showcasing the state’s natural beauty and deepening your connection to people and place while staying respectful of kunanyi (Mt. Wellington) and local Palawa. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a newbie to the sport, everyone is encouraged to join in and experience the magic of the mountain.
Aussie dairy brand Masters Milk celebrates a century of success in 2025.
In 1925, Harold and Thelma Masters established Masters Milk in Byford, WA; 100 years later, the brand is now one of Australia’s most recognisable flavoured dairy drinks. The WA Museum Boola Bardip in Perth is commemorating this achievement with Masters Milk: A Century of WA Goodness, a showcase of historical artefacts, vintage advertising and memorable items from the company. The exhibition honours Masters Milk’s impact on the country and looks forward to its future as an enduring Aussie brand – we’ll raise our glass (of choccie milk) to that!
Mandurah is known for its world-class seafood. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Seafood lovers, this one is for you! Set against an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, the Mandurah Crab Fest is an incredible showcase of this coastal town’s deeply rooted foodie culture, as well as the location and lifestyle that make it so special. And 2025 is promising to be another year of family, fun and food along Mandurah’s stunning waterfront. This year’s Crab Fest encompasses fresh and local food at its finest, plus live music performances, children’s entertainment, competitions, cooking demonstrations and more. If you’re in the area, don’t miss Thomas Dambo’s famous Giants of Mandurah, an incredible outdoor sculpture trail with a twist.
Guests can expect a range of fabulous activities. (Image: Abby Murray Photography)
If you’re a WA dweller and feeling a little envious of the Mardi Gras parties happening on the east coast, you can breathe a sigh of relief. It’s time to get the glitter ready, as Broome Pride has come to the rescue again with its stellar line-up of fabulous activities and events on the West Coast. The festival has been celebrating Pride for over 10 years in Broome, so you can expect big things. Think cabaret nights, comedy shows, dance parties and trivia nights, all culminating in the Mardi Gras Buzz Regatta.
Sample wines from local cellar doors like Simon Tolley. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
Join a collection of your favourite South Australian wineries, distilleries, breweries, cideries and food vendors all in one place this March at A Taste of the Hills. Prepare your tastebuds for an explosion of local flavour, with exhibitors like Simon Tolley Wines, 78 Degrees Distillery, Mismatch Brewing Co, Yumi’s Pantry, Red Cacao Chocolatier and Kafethaki all making an appearance. You can also take part in tastings and masterclasses among the tranquil scenery of the Adelaide Hills, as well as pick up fresh produce at the onsite farmers market. Add on pre-arranged minibus hire, so you can sample everything stress-free.
It’s one of Australia’s biggest cultural events of the year. (Image: WOMADelaide)
Get excited – the iconic WOMADelaide festival, which stands for World Of Music, Arts and Dance, is returning to Adelaide to spice up the city yet again. The open-air event is one of the most celebrated annual festivals in the City of Churches, spanning four thrilling days. There are countless exciting events to look forward to, including performances by local and international artists, street theatre, market stalls, art installations and food offerings. While every year is a good year for WOMADelaide, this year’s program is promising big things – but you’ll have to head over to find out!
Some of the world’s best automotive brands will be present.
If you like cars, you’re going to love this. Held the week before the Australian Grand Prix, the Adelaide Motorsport Festival is a museum in motion, displaying historic, rare and significant racing vehicles. The event combines automotive history with the latest tech to celebrate the power, speed and innovation of the industry. This year’s program is sure to get your wheels rolling; from car displays and demonstrations to a street party precinct and celebrity guests, there’s truly something for every revhead.
Gather your mates and head to Never Never’s G&T off.
For one day only, Never Never Distilling Co. and Strangelove Tonic are joining forces to bring you The Great Aussie G&T Off, held at the gin producer’s stunning distillery cellar door in McLaren Vale. Ambassadors from both Aussie brands will go head-to-head on the day to craft the ultimate G&T. After being sampled and voted on by the industry’s best judges (that would be YOU), the winning cocktail will earn a spot on Never Never’s special menu. The competition will be followed up with lawn games, gin flights and live music from DJ Tommy Tequila – the ultimate Sunday trio!
Mparntwe/Alice Springs will be sprinkled with fabulousness for fabALICE. (Image: Tourism NT)
Continue the Mardi Gras party this month at fabALICE, a festival of drag and cabaret that celebrates the inclusivity and diversity of Mparntwe/Alice Springs. There is so much to look forward to this year, with the fabALICE program simply bursting at the seams. From lip sync battles and cabaret performances to drag queen bingo and fashion shows, your itinerary is sure to be jam-packed. Join this vibrant NT community as it sparkles this March in honour of pride, love and diversity.
The first-ever Darwin Comedy Festival is bringing big belly laughs to the Top End this month. A stellar line-up of comedy heavyweights will take to the stage, with fans of Celeste Barber, Nazeem Hussain, Reuben Kaye, Geraldine Hickey and Luke McGregor all in luck. While some of Australia’s best will be there, don’t miss up-and-coming comedians at the Raw Comedy NT Final – who knows, you may just find your next favourite! The festival, held at the Darwin Entertainment Centre, also offers a range of family-friendly activities that will put the whole family in stitches.
Fishermen from across the NT are hoping to catch the million-dollar barra. (Image: Shane Bartie)
March marks the final month for season 10 of Million Dollar Fish, a Top End-wide fishing competition with an expensive twist. Back when the season started in October last year, 10 barramundi carrying a million-dollar pricetag were released in five main fishing destinations across the Northern Territory: Darwin, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, the Tiwi Islands and Katherine. There were also 99 more of the marine species released in nearby areas, all with their own $10,000 prize. Now, with season 10 nearing its end, the countdown is officially on for the final school of fish to be found – will you be casting a line?
Admire the hot air balloons above Lake Burley Griffin. (Image: Steven Tritton)
Look up when in the nation’s capital this month as it comes to life with the annual Canberra Balloon Spectacular. For nine mesmerising days, countless hot air balloons dance across the sky above the capital in a kaleidoscope of colour, attracting photographers, families and visitors alike. Taking place in the John Dunmore Lang Place park, keen spectators can arrive early to see the balloons up close before they take off each morning. Or grab a top-quality coffee before heading to Lake Burley Griffin, arguably the best spot to view the iconic floating parade.
Canberra’s Beer and Cider Festival showcases, you guessed it, the best beer and cider the country has to offer on the grounds surrounding Mercure Canberra in Braddon. The fantastic festival features over 250 craft beers, ciders, spirits and wines from across Australia. This year, vendors include the likes of Spreyton Cider, Coastal Brewing Company, Loose Blue Mountains Liquor Co, Holdfast Distillery, Stone Dog Meadery and more. Food trucks, market stalls, live entertainment, interactive games and masterclasses make for the perfect match pair. From curious beginners to budding brewers, all enthusiasts are welcome!
Movie buffs in the state capital should save the date for the Lights! Canberra! Action! Film Festival as it takes hold of the city for one night only. Bring your own blankets and camp chairs to Senate Rose Garden before securing your snacks and brews from BentSpoke Brewing Co. As the day winds down, settle in to watch the 12 finalist films surrounding this year’s theme, looking back, looking forward. The budding local directors had just 10 days to shoot a short film that featured 10 items from around Canberra. See if you can spot them!
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