What’s On In Adelaide: Autumn Edition
Cooler days. Golden leaves. And every excuse to get out and about.
Autumn in Adelaide is peak event season. The sun’s still out (mostly), the city’s buzzing post-Fringe, and the calendar is packed with everything from long lunches to lantern festivals. Whether you're in the mood for wine, art, or a weekend wander, here’s what we’re saying yes to this season:
1. Tasting Australia
Dates: 3–12 May
Location: CBD + Regional SA
SA’s signature food and drink festival returns, bringing with it chef collabs, long-table feasts, wine masterclasses, and more. Expect everything from city rooftop tastings to luxe countryside experiences. Book ahead—many sell out fast.
https://tastingaustralia.com.au
2. Hills Winter Lantern Festival
Dates: 14 June
Location: Main Street, Hahndorf
Celebrate the changing of the seasons in the Hills with live music, food stalls, and hundreds of handmade lanterns lighting up the historic village. A family-friendly (but still very aesthetic) event that feels like a Studio Ghibli moment IRL.
https://hahndorfsa.org.au
3. Tarnanthi at the Art Gallery of SA
Ongoing into Autumn
Location: North Terrace, Adelaide
If you haven’t caught this yet, go while the weather cools. Tarnanthi is a celebration of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art that’s bold, moving, and beautifully curated. Entry is free and the adjoining gallery café is a dream for slow Sunday mornings.
https://www.agsa.sa.gov.au
4. Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend
Dates: 17–19 May
Location: Clare Valley
Perfect timing for peak Riesling season. Expect live music, food trucks, cellar door takeovers, and pop-up events in and around the Clare Valley. One of SA’s most loved wine weekends—and autumn is when the vines really glow.
https://clarevalleygourmet.com.au
5. Bowerbird Design Market
Dates: 3–5 May
Location: Adelaide Showground
A go-to for beautiful, handmade goods and design-led gifts. Expect fashion, ceramics, jewellery, and homewares from Australia’s best creatives. It’s the perfect time to stock up on thoughtful gifts or just wander with a coffee in hand.
https://bowerbird.net.au
Bonus: Weekend Farmers Markets (in Autumn Light)
Willunga Farmers Market – Every Saturday
Adelaide Showground Market – Every Sunday
Stirling Market – 4th Sunday of each month
They’re not one-off events, but they are seasonal staples. Get there early, bring a tote, and lean into the slow ritual of an autumn morning market run.
Final Note
From long lunches to lanterns, autumn in Adelaide is all about slowing down while staying inspired. Save the dates, layer up, and make the most of the season while it lasts.