Spring has finally sprung in Adelaide, bringing sunshine, warmer days, and a chance to get out and explore the city. Whether you're into cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, or just looking for some fun on a budget, Adelaide has something for everyone this season.
So, grab your friends and make the most of the longer days with these top spring activities and events that are perfect for students!
OzAsia Festival
When: 9 October – 1 November 2026
Where: Various venues across Adelaide
Entry: Free and ticketed events
It's also the final year of OzAsia Festival! Audiences are invited to celebrate two decades of the festival.
One of Adelaide’s most exciting spring events, celebrating Asian arts, culture, and cuisine. The festival showcases live performances, film screenings, art exhibitions, and food markets. You can also check out the Moon Lanterns at Elder Park and grab something to eat at the popular Lucky Dumpling Market. With plenty of free entertainment alongside ticketed shows, there are options for different student budgets.
Feast Festival
When: 1 – 22 November 2026
Where: Various venues
Entry: Free and ticketed events
Adelaide’s Feast Festival is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ arts, culture and community, offering a diverse range of performances, parties, exhibitions and community events. The 2026 festival features more than 80 events across Adelaide and regional South Australia.
With a mix of free and ticketed experiences, it’s a great opportunity to experience another side of Adelaide’s arts and cultural scene. You can even finish the festival at Picnic in the Park at Whitmore Square/Iparrityi on 22 November, which is free to attend.
Gilles at the Grounds Markets
When: 11 & 31 October, 15 November 2026
Where: Adelaide Showgrounds, Wayville
Entry: Free
If you love hunting for unique finds, Gilles at the Grounds is Adelaide’s go-to market for vintage clothing, handmade crafts and local street food. It’s an easy weekend activity to enjoy with friends or a chance to pick up something different for your wardrobe.
The regular Sunday markets run from 9am to 3pm, with selected night markets also held throughout the year.
Carrick Hill
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Where: 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield
Entry: Gardens and grounds are free; House Museum entry from $18 concession
Carrick Hill is a stunning heritage estate located just 8km from Adelaide’s CBD, offering expansive gardens, art and history. Whether you’re exploring the grounds or taking a tour of the historic house, it’s a perfect spring day out.
The gardens and grounds are free to visit, so you can enjoy a peaceful walk or picnic with friends without spending anything. If you’re interested in history or art, you can also pay to explore the House Museum and its collection.
RAA Bay to Birdwood
When: 18 October 2026
Where: West Beach to Birdwood
Entry: Free to watch along the route; tickets required for the Finish Festival
RAA Bay to Birdwood is one of the world’s great historic motoring events, bringing more than 1,500 historic vehicles together for a 67-kilometre journey from West Beach to the National Motor Museum in Birdwood.
You can find a spot along the route and watch the historic vehicles pass by for free, or head to Birdwood for the Finish Festival and get up close to automotive history from the early 1900s through to the 1990s.
Mount Lofty Botanic Garden
When: Open daily
Where: Summit Road, Crafers
Entry: Free
For those looking to get in touch with nature, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is around a 25-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD and offers walking trails and beautiful seasonal gardens.
It’s an ideal spot for a spring escape, whether you want to have a picnic, take a walk or simply enjoy some time away from the city. Entry is free, and free guided walks are also held on Thursdays throughout spring.
