Australian autumn is well-known for its vibrant festivals and events. As temperatures drop and the leaves change colour, locals and international students alike have so much to enjoy, from food to wine festivals to live music performances.
Wondering exactly what happens in autumn in Australia? Well, we’ve got the answers! Here are 20 unmissable events to check out this autumn in Australia.
Read more: 7 Fun Things to do in Autumn in Australia
When is autumn in Australia?
Every year, autumn in Australia begins on 1 March and lasts through March, April and May.
During this season, Australians also observe numerous public holidays, including Easter weekend (7-10 April 2023) and Anzac Day, which falls on 25 April every year.
Daylight saving time also ends during autumn in Australia, with the clocks going back one hour on the first Sunday of April.
Fun things to do in autumn in Sydney
The Sydney Royal Easter Show is Australia’s largest annual ticketed event that runs from 6-17 April 2023. The show is filled with fun activities including food stalls, fun rides and even animals. It doesn’t matter how old you are – there’s something here for everyone!
If you are into creativity, technology and innovation, Vivid Sydney is for you! The event runs from 26 May to 17 June 2023. In addition to the spectacular displays of light, you can enjoy music, innovative ideas and tasty food.
On the lookout for Sydney’s biggest comedy event? Head to the Sydney Comedy Festival. Running from 24 April to 21 May 2023, the event will feature over 150 of the best comedians in Australia and from around the globe.
Fun things to do in autumn in Melbourne
Searching for nail-biting, heart-racing fun? Look no further than the F1 Grand Prix! You can enjoy this entertaining event from 30 March to 2 April 2023. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the action while getting up close and personal with your favourite F1 racing heroes.
Melbourne is known for its incredible food and drink scene, which features delicious coffee, a wide variety of cuisines and amazing bars. For anyone who loves these things, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival is a must. The festival is a 10-day huge event with top-tier food and drink, big names and unforgettable moments.
Ability Fest is Australia’s first and only completely accessible music festival striving to promote inclusivity. The event is on 25 March 2023 and ticket prices range from $100-$130.
Fun things to do in autumn in Brisbane
Queensland’s biggest cycling event, Tour de Brisbane, will take place from Friday 31 March to Sunday 2 April 2023. The main event rides will occur on Sunday 2 April 2023 at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
If you’re keen for a laugh (or ten), check out the Brisbane Comedy Festival. Running from 28 April to 28 May 2023, the festival features a great selection of events, including improv, musical performances and sketch comedy sets.
Brisbane Street Art Festival is an annual public art event that is held from 6-21 May 2023. This is a great opportunity to see beautiful large-scale exhibitions and powerful artist panel talks alongside a massive workshop program.
Fun things to do in autumn in Perth
Are you looking to enjoy some incredible music with friends during autumn in Australia? Why not head to Groovin The Moo (Bunbury)? Groovin The Moo is an annual music festival that will take place on 6 May 2023 in Bunbury. This year’s lineup includes artists like Eliza Rose, alt-J, Denzel Curry and Fatboy Slim.
Oz Comic-Con is another unmissable event this autumn. Combining entertainment and pop culture, the event will run from 1-2 April 2023. Here you can check out Q&As with special guests, partake in cosplay competitions, and watch various demonstrations.
Fun things to do in autumn in Adelaide
The Adelaide Fringe Festival happens every autumn and is one of Adelaide’s biggest arts festivals in the Southern Hemisphere (on until 19 March 2023). From comedy sets to cabaret shows to drag brunches, there’s so much to see and enjoy.
Tasting Australia is the country’s longest-running eating and drinking festival. This is one event where you can create innumerable moments together alongside having delicious food. Tasting Australia will be held in Victoria Square/Tarntanyagga from 28 April to 7 May 2023.
An Easter celebration, the Meadows Easter Fair will be held over the four days of the Easter long weekend (7-10 April 2023). Here you’ll find 100+ stalls to browse and enjoy. The fair opens daily at 9am and closes at 4pm.
Fun things to do in autumn in Canberra
Enlighten Festival happens every autumn in Canberra (this year until 19 March) and there are seven signature events for you to enjoy. Most events at the Enlighten Festival are free to attend and do not require registration.
The Canberra Comedy Festival will run from 16-26 March 2023, with shows taking place at various venues across the city. If you’re eager to support local and international comedy acts, have a look at the program and get your tickets to secure your spot!
Fun things to do in autumn in Darwin
BASSINTHEGRASS is another music festival held annually during autumn in Australia. This year, the event is taking place on 20 May and several big names are gracing the lineup, including Spacey Jane, Tones and I, Amy Shark and Peach PRC.
The Mindil Beach Sunset Market is as multicultural as it gets, with 200+ unique stalls, showcasing food from international cuisines, arts, crafts and services such as tarot readings. Entry to the market is free, making it ideal for a student budget.
Fun things to do in autumn in Hobart
Dover Seafest is a fun-filled event with food and beverage stalls, music and all-around fun. The event is happening on 19 March 2023 and is free to attend.
If you’re on the hunt for incredible live music performances, you must know about Day on the Lawn. As one of Tasmania’s most iconic music festivals, it’s unsurprising that this year’s lineup is top-notch, featuring artists like Tones and I, Sycco and Dope Lemon.
