Southern Tablelands National Events
Southern Tablelands is located in the southeastern region of Australia, in the state of New South Wales. Known for its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and vast grasslands, the Southern Tablelands is home to several nationally or globally recognized events that attract visitors from all over the world.
1. Canberra Balloon Spectacular
The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is an annual hot air balloon festival that takes place in March. It is held at the lawns of Old Parliament House in Canberra, which is just an hour's drive from the Southern Tablelands. The event brings together several hot air balloon enthusiasts from across the globe. During this event, visitors can enjoy watching more than 30 hot air balloons flying in the sky, tethered balloons on display, and live music performances.
2. Floriade
Floriade is a month-long spring flower festival held in Canberra's Commonwealth Park. It is just an hour's drive from the Southern Tablelands. Typically, the festival begins in mid-September and continues until mid-October. At Floriade, visitors can experience the blooming spring flowers, enjoy the live music performances, participate in crafting workshops, food fairs, and explore the beautiful garden displays.
3. National Cherry Festival
The National Cherry Festival is an annual event held in Young, which is just an hour's drive from the Southern Tablelands. Held in December, the festival celebrates the harvest season of cherries, which is the biggest cherry production area in Australia. During this three-day festival, visitors can enjoy cherry picking, cherry pie baking competitions, and street parades.
4. Australian Blues Music Festival
The Australian Blues Music Festival is an annual event held in Goulburn, which is just half an hour's drive from the Southern Tablelands. Held every February, the festival brings together blues musicians from all over Australia and the world. Visitors can experience live music performances from several international artists and attend workshops, jam sessions, and master classes.
5. Sheep and Wool Show
The Sheep and Wool Show is an annual event held at the Bendigo Exhibition Centre, located just an hour's drive from the Southern Tablelands. Held in July, the event is dedicated to showcasing the products and crafts made from sheep's wool. Visitors can enjoy sheep shearing, sheepdog trials, wool spinning competitions, and explore the stalls selling woolen products and crafts.
6. Australian Celtic Festival
The Australian Celtic Festival is an annual event held in Glen Innes, which is just a two-hour drive from the Southern Tablelands. Held in May, the festival celebrates the Celtic culture and traditions with several events like music performances, storytelling sessions, workshops, and market stalls selling Celtic inspired products.
7. Bowral Autumn Music Festival
The Bowral Autumn Music Festival is an annual event held in the Southern Highlands region of New South Wales. The festival brings together several classical musicians from all over the world. Held every April, visitors can enjoy music performances, attend workshops, and have a chance to engage with talented and renowned musicians.
the Southern Tablelands is home to several fantastic annual events that attract visitors from all over the world. From hot air balloon festivals to flower shows, from music festivals to cherry picking, the Southern Tablelands has something to offer for everyone. Whether you're a tourist or a local, make sure to mark these events on your calendar and enjoy the experiences they have to offer.