Winter in Adelaide brings a different kind of magic – a chance to embrace the crisp air and cosy up to all the unique experiences the city has to offer.
Whether you’re exploring art galleries, enjoying local wines by a fire, or wandering through dazzling light displays, there’s something special about Adelaide when the temperature drops.
From family fun to food festivals, this guide highlights the best things to do in Adelaide this winter, so grab your jacket and get ready to discover the warmth and charm of the season.
Family-Friendly Winter Activities & Events in Adelaide
Winter Whale Fest (Victor Harbor, June 2025)
From June 1 to 30, Victor Harbor comes alive with the Winter Whale Fest, celebrating the arrival of Southern Right whales to South Australian waters.
Over the month, more than 25 events bring together science talks, cultural storytelling, hands-on workshops, and coastal adventures for all ages.
Not to be missed are the Welcoming of the Whales ceremony, an Artisan Market, kids’ activities, and a lantern parade inspired by the Kondoli whale dreaming story.
It’s a festival that’s perfect for nature lovers and curious kids, all while showcasing the majestic whales and the incredible marine life that surrounds them.
Science Alive! (Adelaide Showground, 2–3 Aug 2025)
Australia’s biggest interactive science exhibition makes its return to Adelaide this August. Science Alive!
Features a wide array of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and thrilling science shows for all ages.
From chemistry experiments and robotics to VR simulations and wildlife displays, there’s something for everyone.
Held indoors at the Adelaide Showground, this two-day event is the ideal family outing – a fun way to spark kids’ curiosity while staying cosy and dry.
Disney On Ice – Find Your Hero (20–22 Jun 2025)
This winter, the magic of Disney comes to Adelaide, bringing families together at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
From June 20 to 22, Disney On Ice presents “Find Your Hero,” with multiple sessions available throughout the weekend.
Watch as favourite characters from Disney classics glide across the ice, bringing music and stories to life in a captivating spectacle.
With both morning and evening shows, including special sessions for kids, it’s the perfect indoor adventure for children and the young at heart during the winter school holidays.
Willunga Almond Blossom Festival (26–27 Jul 2025)
A beloved community event in the McLaren Vale region, the Almond Blossom Festival is an ideal family day trip.
Held in Willunga on the last weekend of July, it marks the stunning bloom of the almond orchards with fairground rides, local food stalls, live music, and, of course, the beautiful blossoms.
The festival also includes a lively street parade, petting zoos, and craft markets, making it a fun winter outing for both kids and adults.
Pick up a bag of freshly roasted almonds and soak up the carnival vibes on the gorgeous Fleurieu Peninsula.
Adelaide Zoo & Cleland Wildlife Park
Winter is the perfect time to explore Adelaide’s zoos and wildlife parks, with many animals more active in the cooler weather.
Adelaide Zoo, situated near the city centre, is open every day of the year and is home to famous residents, including the giant pandas.
Just a short drive away, Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide Hills offers a chance to hand-feed kangaroos and koalas in a natural bush setting.
These parks are a great outdoor adventure for kids, even on chilly days – wrap up warm and enjoy the quieter atmosphere compared to summer.
Both parks also feature indoor exhibits and cafés, providing a chance to warm up between animal encounters.
Food & Wine Festivals and Seasonal Dining
Adelaide Beer & BBQ Festival (6–8 Jun 2025)
South Australia’s largest craft beer festival is marking its 10th anniversary this year over the King’s Birthday long weekend.
From June 6 to 8, the Beer & BBQ Festival at the Adelaide Showground offers hundreds of craft beers and ciders, mouth-watering barbecue from expert pitmasters, and live music to keep the energy high.
It’s a must-do winter event for food lovers – sample local brews, watch BBQ competitions, and indulge in smoky meats, all in a lively, family-friendly setting.
This 2025 edition is extra special, as it will be the last one in its current format, making it your final chance to enjoy this much-loved festival.
Adelaide Hills Winter Reds Festival (25–27 Jul 2025)
For wine enthusiasts, the Winter Reds weekend in late July is a must.
From July 25 to 27, over 50 Adelaide Hills wineries open their doors for a cosy celebration of cool-climate red wines, complete with crackling open fires, live music, and delicious local food.
In 2025, MasterChef personality Matt Preston will be the festival’s ambassador, adding an extra touch of star power.
Grab a souvenir wine glass and wander between cellar doors – sip Shiraz by the fire at one vineyard, then enjoy mulled wine and gourmet comfort food at another.
The Adelaide Hills’ stunning winter landscape and warm, welcoming cellar doors make this the state’s largest winter wine festival.
Cellar Door Fest – Winter Edit (11–12 Jul 2025)
This boutique indoor food and wine festival brings the vineyard straight to the city.
A winter version of Adelaide’s popular summer Cellar Door Fest, the Winter Edit takes place on July 11–12, 2025, at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
Dozens of South Australian wineries, breweries, and artisan food producers gather under one roof.
Visitors can sample regional wines, craft spirits, and seasonal winter dishes while enjoying live acoustic music.
It’s the perfect “winter warmer,” offering cosy winery vibes in the heart of the city – ideal for those wanting to explore SA’s finest produce without leaving downtown.
Adelaide Wine Festival – Winter Show (8 Jun 2025)
For an authentic taste of South Australia’s wine regions in one place, make your way to the historic Adelaide Central Market on Sunday, 8 June.
The Winter Show, part of the Adelaide Wine Festival, is a one-day tasting event featuring over 50 of the state’s top wineries.
From 11 am to 5 pm, ticket holders can enjoy a range of reds, whites, and winter warmers, all set in the lively market atmosphere.
With live music, food stalls from market traders, and a chance to chat with winemakers, this event pairs the best of SA’s wine with the Market’s famous produce. (Note: Tickets are around $40, and the event is 18+).
Hearty Dining & Markets
Winter in Adelaide is the perfect time to dive into the city’s vibrant food scene.
Join a guided Adelaide Central Market Tour to sample fresh seasonal produce like citrus fruits, truffles, and artisan cheeses, or take a stroll through the market’s cosy corridors on a rainy morning.
Many restaurants and pubs offer special winter menus, featuring a range of dishes from hearty stews and curries to indulgent hot desserts.
In July, the Campbelltown Pizza Festival celebrates the area’s Italian heritage with pizza specials at local eateries throughout the month.
For something a bit different, book a winter “igloo” at a Glenelg or city bar – these pop-up clear domes, complete with heaters and fairy lights, let you enjoy a warm meal or mulled wine while taking in the chilly night sky.
Indoor Arts, Culture & Entertainment
Art Galleries & Museums
Adelaide’s museums and galleries offer the perfect cultural escape on chilly days.
The Art Gallery of South Australia, situated on North Terrace, houses an impressive collection that spans Indigenous Australian art to European masterpieces, with new touring exhibitions regularly on display.
Just next door, the South Australian Museum invites visitors to explore natural history treasures, including giant dinosaur fossils and the famous Opalised Fossil collection, with free entry to the exhibits.
For a step back in time, the State Library’s grand Mortlock Wing and the Migration Museum offer fascinating insights into history.
All these venues are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to enjoy an indoor cultural experience when winter weather sets in.
Adelaide Festival Centre & Theatres
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy theatre in Adelaide, with a full lineup of shows and performances.
The Adelaide Festival Centre and the newly restored Her Majesty’s Theatre host everything from musicals and plays to comedy and dance.
In June 2025, the Festival Centre will come alive with the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, the world’s largest cabaret festival.
Beyond the festivals, there’s always something on, from touring Broadway productions and local theatre company performances to concerts by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.
Enjoy a pre-show dinner along the Riverbank, then relax into a plush seat for a night of top-notch entertainment, all inside and out of the cold.
Interactive Experiences
Adelaide offers a range of unique indoor activities for all ages.
MOD (Museum of Discovery) is a must-visit – a free science and technology museum with interactive exhibits that blend art and science, making it a hit with teens and young adults.
If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, try an escape room challenge at one of Adelaide’s puzzle rooms, or head to The Underground beneath Rundle Mall for ten-pin bowling and arcade gaming.
For film lovers, winter is the ideal time to enjoy a movie at heritage cinemas like the Capri Theatre, an Art Deco beauty with a Wurlitzer organ, or the modern Palace Nova in the East End.
Whether it’s learning, gaming, or movie-watching, Adelaide’s indoor attractions offer plenty of options to stay entertained and warm.
Scenic Day Trips & Nature Experiences
Adelaide Hills Villages & Hikes
Just 30 minutes from the city, the Adelaide Hills make for a perfect winter getaway.
Head up the South Eastern Freeway to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, where you can wander through charming streets, pop into cosy cafes for a warm slice of strudel or a cup of glühwein, and explore shops offering local crafts and produce.
The region’s cool winter temperatures are ideal for hiking – the recent rains make waterfalls like Morialta Falls and Waterfall Gully even more impressive, with powerful cascades and lush surrounds.
A hike to Mt. Lofty Summit offers stunning panoramic views (if the weather is clear) and the chance to enjoy a hot chocolate at the summit café.
From fire-lit pubs in Stirling to the misty forests of Cleland, the Hills provide a great mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure on a crisp winter’s day.
Whale Watching on the Fleurieu Peninsula
Winter in South Australia is whale season, and the Fleurieu Peninsula’s coastline offers some of the best spots for viewing.
Take a drive to Victor Harbor, about 1.5 hours from Adelaide, where you can spot southern right whales nursing their calves in Encounter Bay.
Popular vantage points, such as Basham Beach and The Bluff, often offer great sightings between June and August.
The town’s SA Whale Centre is a fantastic stop, with interactive displays and updates on recent whale activity.
For a truly immersive experience, time your visit with the Winter Whale Fest in June, which features guided whale-spotting walks and marine conservation talks.
Even outside the festival, you can take a ride on the historic Horse-Drawn Tram to Granite Island and enjoy scenic coastal walks.
Be sure to pack a jacket and binoculars – witnessing a whale breach off the Fleurieu coast is a real winter highlight.
Barossa & McLaren Vale Wine Country
While the vineyards may be bare in winter, South Australia’s wine regions remain as charming as ever.
Head north to the Barossa Valley for a day trip, where you can visit iconic wineries and cosy cellar doors.
Many venues offer unique winter experiences, such as barrel tastings or food pairings – for instance, a Midwinter Chocolate and Wine Pairing event matches Barossa reds with local artisan chocolates.
Just south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale offers stunning views with its rolling vineyards and coastal backdrop – spend the afternoon hopping between wineries, then catch a breathtaking winter sunset at Port Willunga beach.
Both regions feature excellent farm-to-table restaurants, with fireplaces warming you on chilly nights and hearty seasonal menus.
A slow Sunday lunch among the vines, paired with a robust Shiraz or Grenache, is one of the finest ways to enjoy an Adelaide winter.
Murray River & Coastal Adventures
If you’re looking to escape the city for a while, a drive to the mighty Murray River or along the Coorong is an excellent option.
In winter, the Murray wetlands are lush and thriving – take a relaxed river cruise from Adelaide to spot birdlife and enjoy onboard dining.
For those seeking adventure, try a guided kayak in the Coorong’s sheltered lagoons, where migratory birds gather (remember to wrap up warm for the breeze!).
On a clear winter day, head to Yorke Peninsula’s Innes National Park or Deep Creek Conservation Park on the Fleurieu for rugged coastal cliffs, rolling green hills, and perhaps a rainbow after a passing shower.
These day trips offer plenty of fresh air, wildlife, and open space – the perfect way to enjoy winter away from the city’s bustle.
Cultural Festivals, Performances & Winter Markets
Adelaide Cabaret Festival (5–21 June 2025)
Adelaide doesn’t slow down after “Mad March” – every June, the city lights up with the world’s largest cabaret festival.
Running from 5–21 June 2025 at the Festival Centre and Her Majesty’s Theatre, the Adelaide Cabaret Festival brings together local and international artists for nights filled with music, comedy, burlesque, and vaudeville.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, the festival promises a mix of glamorous shows and intimate performances.
Big-name headliners, such as Grammy-winning artist Jacob Collier, join the lineup alongside exciting emerging talents in early June.
With late-night piano bars, themed gala events, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, the Cabaret Festival proves that Adelaide’s arts scene doesn’t quiet down in winter – it just gets a bit colder.
Grab a ticket to a show or two and enjoy a sparkling winter night out.
Illuminate Adelaide (2–20 July 2025)
Illuminate Adelaide has quickly become the city’s flagship winter event, turning Adelaide into a vibrant canvas of light, art, and technology every July.
From July 2 to 20, 2025, the festival will once again illuminate the city after dark with immersive light installations, interactive artworks, and cutting-edge music performances.
In the heart of the CBD, the free outdoor City Lights trail will bring laneways and buildings to life with digital projections and glowing sculptures.
At the Adelaide Botanic Garden, the ticketed Night Visions experience will guide visitors through a captivating landscape of sound and light (a magical sequel to previous years’ sell-out light trails).
One night, hundreds of drones will rise above Adelaide Oval, creating a stunning display in the sky as part of the Horizons show.
With a full program of events, including live music gigs, an “Illuminate Base Camp” festival hub, and speaker talks, Illuminate Adelaide transforms the city into an after-dark playground.
Rug up and head out to discover why this young festival has already become a winter highlight.
SALA Festival (1–31 August 2025)
August in Adelaide means it’s time for the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival, a month-long celebration of visual art across the state.
From 1–31 August 2025, galleries, cafes, pubs, and public spaces throughout Adelaide (and regional SA) will showcase works by thousands of artists, from emerging talent to established names.
The city itself becomes an art gallery – you might stumble upon a photography exhibition in a coffee shop or discover a sculpture trail in a park.
The festival also features special events, such as an Open Studios Weekend, where you can meet artists in their creative spaces, and the SALA Awards.
With most exhibitions free to attend, SALA invites everyone to be part of this statewide creative showcase.
It’s a brilliant way to explore Adelaide’s neighbourhoods while enjoying a diverse range of artworks, all without spending a cent, on those crisp winter days.
Winter Markets & Pop-Up Experiences
Adelaide fully embraces the chill of winter with cosy markets and pop-up attractions.
Twilight markets and food fairs light up select winter evenings – for instance, the Victor Harbor Winter Whale Fest kicks off with an artisan market by the sea, and Adelaide’s Laneways often host night markets filled with crafts and street food, all under festoon lighting.
The Adelaide Central Market, open year-round, adds to the winter charm with special events, like cooking demos celebrating citrus and truffles, and remains a top spot for comfort foods and hot drinks.
Down at Glenelg, Moseley Square transforms into a Winter Wonderland ice rink in July, offering families a chance to skate by the sea.
The rink, typically set up from July 1 to 25 under a large marquee, offers beach views during the day and disco-lit skate sessions by night.
Keep an eye out for other pop-ups, such as outdoor fire pits with live music or alpine-themed bars serving mulled wine.
These seasonal markets and experiences bring an extra layer of fun to Adelaide’s winter, inviting everyone to gather, celebrate, and warm their hearts, no matter the cold.
The Wrap-Up
From sipping Barossa reds by a cosy fireplace to strolling through glowing winter light displays, each of these activities highlights the unique charm of Adelaide during the cooler months.
With a mix of family-friendly adventures, foodie festivals, cultural events, and natural wonders, Adelaide in winter 2025 offers a vibrant array of experiences for everyone to enjoy.
So, bundle up and make the most of this season’s offerings!
