Here’s where to get your groove on this month.

April is always a welcome time of the year for me – the last of summer’s heat has been sucked up by autumn’s arrival, and I can finally retrieve the knitted cardigans and fluffy slippers from the back of my wardrobe. I truly love it when the days start getting a little shorter, the air a little crisper, the coffee a little warmer. But the ability to get out of bed in the morning? That starts getting a LOT harder.

If you can relate, don’t stress. After consulting Australia’s annual events calendar, I’ve collated an incredible line-up of events across the country that will have you jumping out of bed like Grandpa Joe in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Shall we?

Taylah’s top picks of the month:

• Best foodie event: Wine & Cheese Fest, Sydney, NSW (11 April)
• Best music event: National Folk Festival, Canberra, ACT (2–6 April)
• Best cultural event: Parrtjima, Alice Springs, NT (10–19 April)
• Best outdoor event: Outback River Lights, Cunnamulla, Qld (17–19 April)
• Best arts event: International Street Arts Festival, Fremantle, WA (3–6 April)

Upcoming events to keep on your radar:

• Tasting Australia, Adelaide, SA (8–17 May)
• Maltstock, Bothwell, Tas (15–17 May)
• Vivid Sydney in Sydney, NSW (22 May – 13 June)
• Taste of Kakadu, Kakadu, NT (23 May)
• Woodend Winter Arts Festival, Macedon Ranges, Vic (5–8 June)

What’s on in NSW in April

Maybe Cocktail Festival
Sydney
14–19 April

For just six days this month, the Maybe Cocktail Festival is bringing some of the world’s finest mixologists to Australian shores. With 22 international bars – five of which appeared on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 list – taking up residency across the city, Sydney’s bar scene is set to explode. While the full program is yet to be released, it’s already looking hot – from one-off collaborations to exclusive tastings and more. We’ll cheers to that!

Newcastle Food Month
Newcastle
1–30 April

Back for its sixth rendition, Newcastle Food Month will blow your taste buds out of the water by bringing forth the creative talent of Newcastle’s burgeoning culinary scene. The month-long event boasts a plentiful program inclusive of all foodies, from tastings with local winemakers and dinners at hatted restaurants to expert-guided masterclasses and high teas with all the trimmings. With over 70 mouthwatering events, hungry bellies are sure to be satiated this April.

Royal Easter Show
Sydney
2–13 April

Held annually at Sydney Olympic Park, the Royal Easter Show is a highlight on the calendars of Sydneysiders. Beginning in 1823, it’s a true celebration of Australian culture, from rural traditions to modern-day fun. With a specific focus on agricultural programs, competitions, education and youth, The Easter Show is the perfect family day out. Step right up for hands-on animal experiences, entertainment, food stalls, rides, showbags and more.

Unfinished Business
Sydney
Until 19 April

Powerful, poignant and positively groundbreaking, Unfinished Business utilises 3D lenticular printing technologies to share the first-hand stories and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disabilities in Australia. On display at the Australian Museum until 19 April, it reveals the strength and resilience of its subjects – marking an important milestone in accessibility, inclusion and representation.

Field to Forest Festival
Oberon
Until 30 April

April marks the second and final month of the Field to Forest Festival, a regional celebration of all things autumn. Although officially halfway through the 2026 program, there’s still plenty of events to enjoy – from truffle hunts, mushroom foraging and forest walks to farmers markets, creative workshops and open gardens. For those who love to spend the changing of the seasons amongst nature, it’s one of Australia’s cosiest autumn festivities.

Wine & Cheese Fest
Sydney
11 April

Launched in 2014, the Wine & Cheese Fest was created to celebrate one of the world’s most iconic duos. It has since evolved into one of the country’s leading food and wine experiences, championing independent producers from across both Australia and New Zealand. This year marks its first-ever iteration outside of Melbourne, bringing over 50 boutique wineries and artisan cheese makers to Carriageworks for one day only.

Nelly Robinson Pop-Up
Cronulla
9 April

Foodies rejoice! Award-winning chef Nelly Robinson is set to take over The Pines Cronulla for a six-week pop-up, starting 9 April. After a sell-out dinner at Bobbys Cronulla in 2025, Nel returns for a 10-course degustation every Thursday, Friday and Saturday – with signatures like spanner crab tarts covered in a burnt-butter hollandaise. The Terrace will also transform into a vibrant margarita bar, complete with an a la carte menu featuring the legendary NEL burger.

What’s on in Victoria in April

LA Rams vs San Francisco 49ers
Melbourne
Tickets on sale 8 April

Melbourne is set to make history later this year as the first city in Australia to host a regular season NFL game. The Los Angeles Rams will face off against the San Francisco 49ers at the MCG come September, airing on prime-time TV back in the States. Instead of waking up in the middle of the night, Aussies will settle into their live-match seats at the much more reasonable time of 10:35am for kick off. Tickets go on sale from 8 April, starting at $95 per person.

Sorrento Writers Festival
Sorrento
23–26 April

Now in its fourth year, the Sorrento Writers Festival has established itself as one of Australia’s most dynamic literary events. And 2026 is no exception – over 180 authors, journalists, playwrights, screenwriters and poets are heading to the seaside town this April. Big names like Niall Williams, Geraldine Brooks, Sofie Laguna, JP Pomare and Toni Jordan are expected across more than 150 events.

International Comedy Festival
Melbourne
Until 19 April

The lights of the Victorian capital shine a little bit brighter when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes over the city each year. Regarded as one of Melbourne’s most-loved events, everyone gets a good dose of laughter as comedians hit stages across the CBD and further afield. Celebrate the joyful, the inspiring and the silly with a line-up of acts including Aaron Chen, Shaun Micallef, Felicity Ward, Luke McGregor, Hannah Gadsby and more.

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival
Macedon Ranges
1–30 April

The month-long Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival encapsulates over 50 curated events across nine of the region’s prettiest towns. Focusing on local food, wine, art and history, the program spans from farmers markets and guided tours to trivia nights and painting classes. Be sure to join the Pie & Tart Trail for sweet and savoury treats; or if wine is more your style, tag along on the Tipple Trail.

Ballarat Marathon
Ballarat
25–26 April

Break your PB at the Ballarat Marathon this April as it returns for the third year running. The two-day event is designed to celebrate Ballarat’s rich sporting and cultural history, as well as encourage the community to come together and #RunTheRat. There are plenty of races to choose from, ranging in length and difficulty, from five kilometres through the CBD to a full marathon that soaks up the city’s top sights.

Makers & Shakers Market
Melbourne
18–19 April

The ever-creative Makers & Shakers Market returns to Melbourne this month, with over 180 independent crafters and designers setting up shop in Carlton’s Royal Exhibition Building. Browse stalls touting 100 per cent Australian-made products, from fashion and food to homewares and artwork. There will also be crafty workshops to participate in, vinyl DJ-sets to listen to and taste local food to try.

Unearthed Festival
The Pyrenees
11 April

At the annual Pyrenees Unearthed Festival, talented winemakers come together to showcase their award-winning tipples along the scenic Avoca River. As well as sampling wines from across the region, guests can also indulge in seasonal produce at locally led market stalls, enjoy live music and bid on vintage wares at the wine auction. Whether you’re a fan of rich sparkling, bold reds or crisp whites, there’s no better way to discover one of Australia’s top hidden wine regions.

What’s on in Queensland in April

Of This Earth
Cairns
Throughout April

Curated by Gulumirrgin/Wardaman/Karajarri woman Tina Baum and Barkindji/Kunja woman Grace Currey, the NGA’s latest touring exhibition is now on display at Cairns Art Gallery until 14 June. Featuring over 29 works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, Of This Earth: Transforming Culture and Country through First Nations Ceramics showcases the diverse techniques and narratives that define the ever-evolving medium of clay. 

Tour De Brisbane
Brisbane
12 April

To close out the Brisbane Cycling Festival, the Tour de Brisbane is your last opportunity to grab a helmet and hit the pedals. For one day only, 110 kilometres of roadways are closed across the city, with all levels of ability welcome to join. There are a variety of different courses to participate in, from competitive races for keen cyclists to relaxed Sunday rides. With so many K’s to cover, this epic ride is one of the coolest ways to experience Brisbane.

Outback River Lights
Cunnamulla
17–19 April

Outback River Lights puts its own spin on autumn along the banks of the Warrego River. Across three days, Cunnamulla celebrates the spirit of community and local life with everything from workshops and competitions to live performances and cultural experiences. Whether you do dinner under the stars, join a bush tucker cooking class or take a fire-twirling lesson, you’re in for an autumnal treat.

Rockynats
Rockhampton
17–19 April

Revheads, start your engines! The aptly named Rockynats car festival is returning to the Central Queensland city of Rockhampton in 2026, and it’s shaping up to be the best edition yet. Known as the Sunshine State’s largest car and bike festival, it’s the perfect place for auto enthusiasts to get together and burn some rubber. This year’s red-hot program offers plenty of high-octane thrills, from burnout comps and street drags to big truck displays and live music shows.

What’s on in Tasmania in April

Tasmanian Autumn Festival
Derwent Valley
1–30 April

Once summer disappears, Tasmania’s Derwent Valley dials up its charm. A major part of its allure is the month-long Tasmanian Autumn Festival, where local producers come together to showcase the best of the region. Embrace the cool change with kitchen garden tours, guided walks, wine tastings, ghost walks, foraging workshops, long lunches and more – just don’t forget your woolly hat!

Ecofest
Ulverstone
11–12 April

Known as Tasmania’s biggest festival of sustainability, Ecofest is returning to Camp Clayton in Ulverstone this year to celebrate 10 years. Established by the North West Environment Centre, the two-day event is about embracing a green lifestyle and encouraging those who attend to do the same. In 2026, the program will feature everything from market stalls and food trucks to interactive workshops and inspiring presentations – all while producing absolutely zero waste!

TrailGraze
North-West Tasmania
10–21 April

Experience the best of north-west Tasmania’s food bowl at TrailGraze, a weekend of fresh produce, premium beverages and artisan-led activities. From Devonport to Deloraine, Burnie to Beaconsfield, it’s a sensory journey guided by taste and designed to delight. Whether you’re mastering workshops, tackling farm tours or tasting fine wines, you’ll leave bursting at the seams yet still hungry for more.

Nutopia
Lilydale
1 April

Named after John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s imaginary country from the ’70s, Nutopia is a local harvest festival at an organic hazelnut orchard and dreamy farm stay. The cultural celebration invites you to savour the past and taste the future across the weekend; harvest hazelnuts, go foraging, play games, do yoga, eat good food and enjoy live performances. You can even make a night of it and camp out under the stars.

What’s on in Western Australia in April

International Street Arts Festival
Fremantle
3–6 April

Over the Easter long weekend, WA’s breezy port city transforms into an epic outdoor exhibition for the International Fremantle Street Arts Festival. Local favourites and global standouts unite for more than 160 family‑friendly performances, filling the heart of Freo with colour and movement. Best experienced on foot, the free event is open to all – no tickets, no barriers, just pure unfiltered entertainment.

Boorloo Heritage Festival
Perth
1–30 April

To pay respect to its past, the Boorloo Heritage Festival is back for another year of history-fuelled fun across the city. Throughout the month, a variety of events will celebrate the built, natural and cultural heritage of the WA capital, from exhibitions, talks and performances to workshops, walks and tours. Each event will unfold at one of Perth’s iconic landmarks, including Kings Park, the State Library of WA and WA Museum Boola Bardip.

Pippin Drysdale: Infinite Terrain
Perth
Until 6 April

Celebrate an icon of ceramics and porcelain with the eponymous Pippin Drysdale: Infinite Terrain, spanning more than 40 years of the Aussie artist’s career. Known for her flowing lines and evocative use of earthy hues, Drysdale merges her mastery of technique with a fearless approach to experimentation. The exhibition at the Art Gallery of Western Australia will round out its four-month tenure this month.

Margaret River Pro
Prevelly
17–27 April

The eyes of the surfing world will once again be fixed on WA’s South West this month, as the Margaret River Pro make waves across Prevelly. Part of the 50th World Surf League Championship Tour, the 11-day event attracts surfing’s global elite to battle it out at the famous Main Break. Spectators can watch from Surfers Point at some of the world’s best wave shredders compete for Championship points.

What’s on in South Australia in April

SALT Festival
Eyre Peninsula
17–26 April

On South Australia’s stunning Eyre Peninsula, ideas, innovation and art are all celebrated at the annual SALT Festival. Since its inauguration in 2017, it’s become a platform for artists and creators to come together, share opinions and make connections. The 2026 program is as exciting as ever, with plenty to fire up your creativity and imagination – from art exhibitions and hands-on workshops to live music and light installations.

Gather Round
Adelaide
9–12 April

Whether you’re a St Kilda supporter or a Collingwood diehard, Gather Round is a standout on Australia’s sporting calendar – especially for those in South Australia. Held over the Easter long weekend, every Round 5 AFL Premiership game is played here, turning SA into the heart of the action. In the state’s capital, footy fans are in for a real treat, with five of the nine matches unfolding at Adelaide Oval.

Autumn Garden Festival
Clare
19 April

One of the best things about autumn is watching the landscape transform – which is why the SA Autumn Garden Festival is such a hit every year. Known as South Australia’s first-ever gardening fest, it welcomes green thumbs of all abilities to learn about plant care in the cooler months. This year, catch Gardening Australia‘s Costa Georgiadis and Sophie Thomson at workshops and panel talks across the program.

Gather Barossa
Barossa Valley
10–13 April

Just a short stroll from Barossa Park Stadium, Kies Family Wines is bringing the on-field energy to Gather Barossa. Set among the vines, this lively hub pairs live AFL action on the big screen with local music, gourmet eats and plenty of award-winning wine. Across the weekend, expect everything from golden-hour sessions and acoustic sets to winemaker experiences and family-friendly fun – all while cheering on your favourite team.

What’s on in the Northern Territory in April

Kunkurra (The Spiralling Wind)
Darwin
Until 4 April

A striking exploration of culture and art, Kunkurra (The Spiralling Wind) brings together works by leading artists from West Arnhem Land. Presented by Darwin’s Outstation Gallery in partnership with Maningrida Arts & Culture, the exhibition draws on the ancestral force of Kunkurra, a spiralling wind deeply tied to Country. The cross-generational works range from intricate bark paintings to impressive sculptural pieces and more.

Parrtjima – A Festival in Light
Alice Springs
10–19 April

The only Aboriginal festival of its kind, Parrtjima – A Festival in Light, celebrates the arrival of autumn on Arrente Country in Alice Springs. A stalwart of the city’s arts calendar, the free 10-night event blows guests out of the water each year with nightly projections against the MacDonnell Ranges. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the outback in all its glory and learn about one of the oldest living cultures in the world.

Cup Carnival
Alice Springs
11 April – 4 May

Backdropped by the stunning MacDonnell Ranges, the Alice Springs Cup Carnival brings four weeks of racing, fashion and festivities to the Red Centre. Held at Pioneer Park Racecourse, the iconic event showcases the best of Territory racing, all building up to the highly anticipated Cup Day and its headline race. Trackside, guests can also look forward to themed race days, family-friendly events and live entertainment.

What’s on in the ACT in April

Ngura Pulka – Epic Country
Canberra
From 11 April

From April, Ngura Pulka – Epic Country will open at Canberra’s NGA, comprising paintings by senior First Nations artists and collectives. Visitors can admire a range of works, each depicting Country from a different perspective and celebrating the Tjukurpa (Aṉangu law/cultural stories) behind them. it’s a powerful exhibition, representing peoples from across the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, Coober Pedy and Adelaide.

National Folk Festival
Canberra
2–6 April

Sound and movement meet culture and identity at the annual National Folk Festival in Canberra, which celebrates 60 years in 2026. The vibrant five-day affair brings the nation’s capital together in honour of this enduring genre, with workshops, talks, exhibitions, community events and more. This year’s program spans many mediums, from spoken word and dance to music and art.

Anzac Day Service
Canberra
25 April

The Australian War Memorial sits at the heart of Anzac Day commemorations, allowing visitors to honour current and former Australian Defence Force members who have served our country. Its annual Dawn Service remains one of the nation’s most moving, delivered this year by Flying Officer Kbora Ali. Afterwards, attendees are encouraged to join the National Commemorative Service and Veterans’ March through the memorial grounds.