The public holiday has cleared the ol’ calendar and there’s plenty happening on the Australia Day long weekend, so grab your mates and make the most of your weekend!
With lots of family friendly activities to keep the kids entertained during the final days of school holidays, to the respecting country parade, you can choose how to spend your time in a stack of different ways.
SATURDAY
Singapore Circus Sunset Dinner

Enjoy magical sunset views over McLaren Vale, a vibrant banquet dinner, and a front-row seat from your Singapore Circus table.
Head to d’Arenberg for a melting pot of Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine, channelling the vibrant, bold and exciting flavours found at the junctions of colliding cultures. This is a loud, comfortable and inviting collection of dishes suitable for a shared experience.
What: Singapore Circus Sunset Dinner
When: Saturday, January 25th
Where: 58 Osborn Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171
For more info, click here.
Rosé and Dumpling Festival

After an incredibly hectic festive season, a weekend spent relaxing with good food and wine is just what we need. Luckily, the Rosé and Dumpling Festival is BACK in 2025 for an epic January long weekend! Set in the picturesque Adelaide Hills, you can soak up the sun with rosé in hand, all against the perfect backdrop of live music, lush lawns, and mouthwatering dumplings.
Hosted amidst the glorious gardens of the beautiful Howard Vineyard in Nairne, the Rosé and Dumpling Festival will run on Saturday, January 25th, and Sunday, January 26th. This is the perfect excuse to head to the hills and enjoy stunning scenery, great entertainment, and delicious dumplings.
What: Rosé and Dumpling Festival
When: Saturday, January 25th and Sunday 26th 2025
Where: 53 Bald Hills Rd, Nairne SA 5252
For more info, click here.
All Together Know Summer Festival
Turn up the energy and celebrate the vibrant community of West Torrens through the universal language of music. Featuring dance and drumming workshops from Sun of Africa, and performances by Cartel Afinke, and the Amazing Drumming Monkeys, bring a picnic or savour the delicious cuisine available for purchase.
What: All Together Know Summer Festival
When: Saturday January 25th 2025, 5pm
Where: 10 Brooker Ter, Cowandilla SA 5033, Australia
For more info, click here.
Adelaide Zombie Apocalypse
Join the horde and shuffle, moan, and groan through the heart of Adelaide in an epic Zombie Apocalypse Walk from Elder Park to Victoria Square!
Whether you’re a freshly “turned” zombie, a survivor on the run, or an eager spectator, this event is perfect for all ages. Dress up in your best zombie gear or post-apocalyptic costume for a thrilling day of fun, scares, and community spirit.
Meeting at Elder Park between 5 and 6pm, and walking at 7pm.
What: Adelaide Zombie Apocalypse
When: Saturday January 25th 2025, 7pm
Where: Elder Park, King William Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
For more info, click here.
SUNDAY
MOURNING IN THE MORNING – SMOKING CEREMONY

Join Keynote speaker, Yankunytjatjara woman, climate justice campaigner, and senior Aboriginal language expert Karina Lester and Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner in a cleansing Smoking Ceremony early on 26 January, marking the day 237 years ago when the First Fleet arrived in Sydney Cove – and the lives of the continent’s First Nations peoples changed forever.
This profound and interactive event will also encompass music, dance, storytelling, and interactive activities. Hear from First Nations young people about their hopes and aspirations in the post-referendum era. Have a chance to receive a small gift that will help regenerate country that you can nurture with love.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Some seating will be provided. Food and drink vendors will be on site.
WHEN: 7:30am-8:45am on January 26, 2025
WHERE: Elder Park King William Road Adelaide, SA 5000
PRICE: Free admission
AUS LIGHTS ON THE RIVER

The much-loved, Aus Lights on the River, is returning, promising to be an enchanting marine-themed spectacle at Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park on January 26.
Up to 2,000 South Australians from all cultures and walks of life will come together in the spirit of diversity and inclusion as part of Aus Lights on the River 2025 on January 26.
Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama will be brought to life with more than 60 community and volunteer organisations participating in the Respecting Country Parade as a part of the event.
Expect a dynamic, free community event where families, couples and friends can watch the spectacle unfold across Elder Park from the comfort of their picnic blanket to toe-tapping to the beats of various performances.
Aus Lights on the River
Where: Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park
When: 26 January from 5pm – 11pm.
Price: Free entry!
RESPECTING COUNTRY PARADE

Starting at 7pm in Elder Park, the Respecting Country Parade will commence, with 2,000 South Australians in traditional costume walking in unison from Adelaide Oval, across the River Torrens Footbridge and into Elder Park.
Following the parade, a call and response drumming performance by various community groups, including the Burundian Drummers Association, will kick off the evening’s official event of performers on stage from 8pm, including iconic singer/songwriter John Schumann, accompanied by the Adelaide Youth Orchestra.
The Respecting Country Parade is a vibrant celebration of over 75 South Australian communities, highlighting the diversity and richness of our state. It is a coming together in a spirit of inclusion and respect.
The Food Hub will host local vendors as they serve up a delicious fusion of international cuisine. The Food Hub kicks off at 7:30am with freshly brewed coffee to fuel your day. From 10am to 4pm, Tour Down Under visitors can grab a bite, and the feast continues from 5pm to 11pm as part of the Aus Lights on the River festivities.
WHERE: Across the Riverbank Precinct Bridge down to Elder Park / Tarntanya Wama
WHEN: From 7pm, January 26
PRICE: Free, open to public
Australia Day Bonanza at the Grange Sailing Club

Adelaide’s hottest beachside location the Grange Sailing Club is open Australia Day. The weather looks spot on to sit beachfront and enjoy $14 breakfast and lunch drink combos. Open from 10am – 10pm there will be plenty of cold drinks, live music and beach towels for those who want to take a dip. Get the crew together don’t miss what will be a Bonza Day!
WHERE: 417 Seaview Rd, Henley Beach SA 5022
WHEN: 10am – 10pm, January 26
PRICE: Free
AUSSIE DAY DUCK RACE

The beloved Aussie Day Duck Race makes its grand return this month. It’s time to dust off your rubber duckies and purchase your tickets as there’s over $3000 in cash and prizes at stake this year.
The Rotary Club of Morialta is once again at the helm of this event, offering an opportunity for everyone to get involved. Purchase one, two, or even three rubber ducks to contribute to projects benefiting the local community.
Where: Thorndon Park, Hamilton Terrace, Paradise SA 5075
When: January 26th, 2025
Price: Ducks start from $5
Tickets: Click here
SPLASH AT NORWOOD SWIMMING POOL

Spend this Australia Day poolside at Norwood Swimming Centre!
Grab your friends and your bathers for a classic Australia Day pool party. Enjoy music, games and a sausage sizzle, and race the clock on the giant inflatable obstacle course.
Only $5 entry all day.
For more info, click here.
SURVIVAL DAY SA

Survival Day SA is where everyone gets together in Tarntanyangga to celebrate the oldest Living continuing culture on Planet Earth. There will be strong & powerful speakers as well as amazing performers to entertain you all throughout the day.
Where: Victoria Square
When: 11am January 26th, 2025
More info here.
Australia Day at Lou’s by Horizon

To celebrate Australia Day, driving out to the Barossa is well worth it. About a 60-minute drive from Adelaide CBD, Lou’s by Horizon restaurant sits on a beautiful winery and has ample indoor and outdoor seating with a garden for the kids to run in. Good food, wine and beautiful location and scenery will make this Australia Day seen like a mini holiday!
What: Australia Day at Lou’s by Horizon
When: Sunday January 26th
Where: 1876 Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat SA 5352
For more info, click here.
MONDAY
Australia Day at Kellermeister

On Monday, January 27th, Kellermeister will have an Asian-inspired food truck, Hungry Jay and Ma Dai Woodfire Pizzas operating at their cellar door. Plus, lawn games for the families, and free wine tastings with the purchase of wine.
What: Australia Day at Kellermeister
When: Monday January 27th
Where: 1561 Barossa Valley Way, Lyndoch SA 5351
For more info, click here.
CONTINUOUS EVENTS
ILA Playground featuring Sea of Light by Patch Theatre & Extended Canvas by Realities Extended – WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 26
Step into The Light Room and enter a world of wonder! Sea of Light by Patch Theatre combines magical light and a gentle soundscape to create a unique adventure for the whole family. With a UV torch as your paintbrush, paint and stencil your own voyage and steer ships that leave glowing paths of light in their wake.
Then, make your way through to The Light Room Studio, where 150sqm of LED screens transform into Neon Canvas, a world-first experience created by ILA and the University of Adelaide’s Realities Extended team.
What: ILA Playground featuring Sea of Light by Patch Theatre & Extended Canvas by Realities Extended
When: Wednesday, January 8th to Sunday January 26th
Where: 63 Light Square, Adelaide, SA, Australia, South Australia 5000
For more info, click here.
Summer of Spritz at Hotel Alba

This January, Hotel Alba on South Terrace is turning up the heat with its Summer of Spritz event! Hosted in collaboration with R!OT Spritz Coolers, guests and visitors are invited to soak up all the Mediterranean-style poolside vibes, complete with live music, refreshing drinks, and the ultimate summer atmosphere.
What: Summer of Spritz at Hotel Alba
Where: 226 South Tce, Adelaide SA 5000
When: January 10th to January 31st
Price: Pool Pass $30
For more info, click here.
The Santos Tour Down Under 2025 – FRIDAY JANUARY 17 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 26

The Santos Tour Down Under 2025 is here for another exciting year, celebrating its 25th anniversary with a lineup of top international cyclists, including eight current national champions in both the men’s and women’s divisions. Running from Friday January 17th to the following Sunday, January 26th, the event will feature world-class racing across SA, along with fun community events like the Health Partners Family Day this Sunday, offering mini races and free cycling activities for kids, and the Carpark Climb next Saturday, which is a massive free street party with a DJ, food, drinks, and amazing prizes.
What: The Santos Tour Down Under 2025
When: Friday January 17th to Sunday January 26th
Where: Events and action across SA
For more info, click here.
SUMMERVINES FESTIVAL – Friday January 17 to Monday January 27

The SummerVines festival will take over McLaren Vale for eleven days this Friday January 17th to Monday 27th. You can indulge in a showcase of wine, food, and entertainment, while exploring a celebration of the region’s unique coastal influence on its bright, contemporary wines, and thriving farm-to-table ethos.
On offer are 24 unique experiences, where you can go off the beaten path and discover some of McLaren Vale’s best hidden gems. From wine tastings with the experts and lavish long lunches on the lawn to golf buggy vineyard tours and live music, this massive lineup of events caters to both beginners and wine connoisseurs.
One great event is the Picnic at Chapel Hill this Sunday, where you can unwind with family and friends to DJ Es’Ay’s soulful tunes, enjoy a special guest set by Chief Winemaker Michael Fragos, picnic on the lawns with delicious local produce, and sip on wine or locally brewed beer while soaking in stunning views of McLaren Vale.
What: SummerVines
Where: McLaren Vale Wine Region
When: Friday January 17th to Monday January 27th
For more info, click here.
Summer Festival | UNTIL SATURDAY FEBRUARY 8

The highly-anticipated Summer Festival is set to return to Adelaide’s west for another round of free, family-friendly fun in the sun. As an annual highlight of the region, the 2025 Summer Festival has heaps of action for the whole family. Kicking off on Saturday January 11th for six weeks of eventful entertainment. From open-air cinemas to live music, giant water inflatables, mouthwatering food options, and the return of the popular ‘Touch-a-Truck’ event, the festival team has once again pencilled in a fantastic schedule of activities for all ages.
The festival will kick off with an open-air cinema experience at Golflands Reserve in Glenelg North, with a giant 7.5-meter outdoor cinema screen. This Saturday, it will be showing Kung Fu Panda 4 at 8:45pm. Pack your own picnic, or pick up a snag from the on-site sausage sizzle. This event is licensed for BYO only, so bring along your own cold ones and crack them open in front of the big screen.
What: Summer Festival 2025
When: Saturday January 11th until Saturday February 8th
Where: Multiple locations in Adelaide’s West
For more info, click here.
PIZZATECA BEACH POP-UP | UNTIL MONDAY JANUARY 27
Pizzateca’s popular summer pop-up is back at Aldinga Beach, located at the end of Norman Road on the foreshore. Since 2016, Pizzateca has been McLaren Vale’s go-to spot for traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, and this season they’re serving up their cult-favourite pies right by the beach. With a fully licensed beachside pizza bar, you can enjoy a refreshing drink and creamy gelato alongside your hot, fresh pizza. Pizzateca is open daily from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 4pm, including on the Australia Day public holiday.
What: Pizzateca pop-up
Where: Norman Road, Aldinga Beach, South Australia, 5173
When: Friday December 27th to Monday January 27th – open daily Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm
For more info, click here.
Chihuly at the Adelaide Botanic Garden | UNTIL APRIL 29

Known for his jaw-dropping glass sculptures that seem to defy gravity and logic, Chihuly has an exhibition at the picturesque Adelaide Botanic Garden showcasing his vibrant creations until April 29th, 2025. Enjoy a wander through this botanical wonderland and discover Chihuly’s masterpieces nestled amongst the greenery.
What: Chihuly in the Botanic Garden
Where: Adelaide Botanic Garden
When: 27 September 2024 – 29 April 2025
For more info, click here.
Radical textiles exhibition | UNTIL March 30

The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) is showcasing a new world-exclusive exhibition “Radical Textiles,” featuring a broad array of textile arts, from tapestry and embroidery to quilting and tailoring. The exhibit examines their role in documenting and driving social and political shifts. The display includes works from over 150 artists, designers, and activists, using textiles as a medium of resistance, revival, remembrance, and reconciliation spanning the last 150 years.
What: Radical Textiles Exhibition
When: Until March 30th 2025
Where: Art Gallery of South Australia
For more info, click here.
To find out everything that’s happening in Adelaide, check out our What’s On section here.
To view the full event calendar and see what’s happening, click here.
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