Southern Midlands National Events
-powered or virtual events.
1. The Taste of Tasmania - This festival takes place every year during the week between Christmas and New Year's Eve in Hobart, which is only about 45 minutes south of the Southern Midlands. The Taste of Tasmania is the longest-running food and wine festival in the country, featuring over 70 stallholders selling fresh produce, seafood, wine, beer, and more.
2. Hobart Summer Festival - This festival is an annual celebration of culture and community that takes place in January in Tasmania's capital city, Hobart. It features free live musical performances from local and international acts, as well as theatre, comedy, poetry, film screenings, art exhibitions, and open-air markets.
3. Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest - The Huon Valley, which is less than an hour south of the Southern Midlands, hosts the Mid-Winter Fest every year in July. This popular event is a tribute to the region's apple-growing heritage and involves a pagan-inspired bonfire, singing, storytelling, and apple-cider tastings.
4. Tasmania's International Arts Festival - This festival takes place every two years in the month of March and is an opportunity to showcase some of the best art, music, and theatre from around the world. The festival is held in various locations throughout Tasmania, but there are usually several performances and exhibitions within driving distance of the Southern Midlands.
5. New Year's Eve Fireworks - If you're looking for a way to ring in the new year, consider heading up to the top of Mount Wellington, which is the mountain that overlooks Hobart. Every year, there is a free fireworks display at midnight that offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding areas.
6. Royal Hobart Show - If you're looking for an event that's a bit more family-friendly, check out the Royal Hobart Show, which takes place every October. The show features livestock competitions, carnival rides, sideshow games, and a range of local food and wine stalls.
7. Festival of Voices - Held in June in the city of Hobart, the Festival of Voices is a celebration of the human voice in all its forms. The festival offers a range of workshops, performances, and concerts that showcase everything from choral singing to beatboxing.
8. Dark MOFO - This winter festival is held annually in June and takes place in Hobart as well as in nearby towns like Launceston and Burnie. The focus of the festival is on the winter solstice and the intersection of darkness and light, with events ranging from music and theatre performances to art installations and culinary experiences.
9. Agfest - This agricultural festival takes place in May and is one of the biggest events on Tasmania's annual calendar. Hosted in the town of Carrick, which is just a few kilometres from the Southern Midlands, Agfest attracts exhibitors from all over the country showcasing everything from farming equipment to livestock.
10. Mona Foma - This annual festival, which takes place in January, is held at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart and features an eclectic mix of music, art, theatre, and other performances. The festival is known for pushing boundaries and showcasing cutting-edge talent from around the world.
As you can see, the Southern Midlands and the surrounding areas are a hub of culture and community events throughout the year. Whether you're interested in food and wine, music and the arts, or agriculture and farming, there is sure to be an annual event in the region that will pique your interest.