By Tasmania in the Summer
When you think of Tasmania, what springs to mind? For most people it’s the incredible natural wonders such as Wineglass Bay at Freycinet National Park, Gordon River and the surrounding World Heritage Listed forests, or Cradle Mountain and Lake Sinclair. Even Hobart and Launceston, Tasmania’s biggest cities, are considered big, sleepy towns rather than thriving metropolises.
While the natural attractions are clearly Tasmania’s biggest assets, there’s more to the Apple Isle than meets the eye. Every summer Hobart bursts into life with a host of events that any mainland city would be proud to call their own. No matter what kind of event you’re looking for, Hobart has something just for you. From major sports to the finest cultural events you can imagine, the state capital doesn’t disappoint. So if you’re thinking of heading down for a holiday, the best time to head there is when the sun is shining. That way you can enjoy the best of spectacular scenery and action packed events.
Summer 2016/17 may be over, but it’s not too early to start planning for next summer!
To help you plan your big summer trip to Tassie, here are the top five summer events that should be on your hit list.
The Sydney Hobart Yacht Race
Constitution Dock comes alive for the finish of the world’s greatest ocean yacht race. After their gruelling trip down Australia’s east coast and across the notorious Bass Strait, the boats are greeted by a festival in full swing as they sail up the Derwent River for the finish line.
The Hobart Race Village is a free family-friendly event where you can watch the epic race unfold in comfort. Sit on the village green or lounge areas and watch the race on the big screens, and indulge in delicious food and beverages. If the race isn’t enough to keep you entertained, there are live musical performances every day. Plus, if you’re feeling particularly energetic, you can take part in Yoga, Zumba and Bootcamp style classes as well.
Not to be outdone, the Nippers-to-Skippers children’s area has a DIY cupcake bar, circus workshops, face painting and other games and activities to keep them happy and occupied.
WHERE: Constitution Dock, Hobart
WHEN: Late December every year
WEBSITE: www.sydneytohobart.events.com.au
Taste of Tasmania
Tasmania is globally renowned for the quality of its food, and the Taste of Tasmania is a spectacular celebration of local produce. Located on the picturesque Constitution Dock where the Sydney to Hobart yachts can be found after the race, it’s the perfect location for such an event. Take your pick of culinary delights from over 70 stalls featuring the best in seafood, fruits and cheeses to name just a few products on offer. And wash it all down with a selection of boutique and premium quality wines, beers and ciders.
But it’s not just your tastebuds that will thank you, your ears and eyes will be pretty happy as well. Free live performances are held every day and night, with over 100 buskers, musicians and DJ’s adding to the festival atmosphere. And the kids will be just as happy as the adults with a dedicated Kids In The Park space, located right across the road on the lawns of Parliament House. The little ones can take part in classes, dance performances and activities during the day, and watch family-friendly movies in the evening.
WHERE: Princes Wharf No. 1 Shed, Hobart
WHEN: Late December – early January (times vary)
WEBSITE: www.thetasteoftasmania.com.au
Falls Festival
One of the biggest and most loved music festivals on the Australian calendar, the Falls Music and Arts Festival, is a ‘must-do’ for any music lover. Held over three days including New Year’s Eve, the farm location is quintessentially Tasmanian, with incredible views over Marion Bay, Maria Island and the Tasman Sea.
The world-class line-ups each year include a selection of international headline acts, plus plenty of Australia’s favourite performers. Add the 30 local Tasmanian acts on the homebrew stage and you’ve got a festival that stands up against any other this country has to offer.
And to put the cherry firmly on top of this decadent musical dessert, camping within the grounds is free for all three days. It’s a spectacular location with unbelievable views from just about every site, but it is Tasmania so you would hardly expect anything less, right?
WHERE: Marion Bay, Tasmania
WHEN: December 29-31 each year
WEBSITE: www.fallsfestival.com/marion-bay
Hobart International
Every year many of the world’s leading female tennis players descend on Hobart to finalise preparations for the Australian Open. Serena Williams, arguably the greatest tennis player of all time, has graced the Hobart International before, as has stars such as Dinara Safina and Australia’s own Sam Stosur. In 2017, former world number one Jelena Jankovic will be joined by defending champion Alize Cornet and world number 22 Kiki Bertens.
WHERE: Domain Tennis Centre, Hobart
WHEN: Early-mid January
WEBSITE: www.hobartinternational.com.au
KFC T20 Big Bash
Get your cricket fix with a night at Bellerive Oval to watch the Hobart Hurricanes take on the world’s best T20 players. Featuring at least four homes games every year, there are plenty of opportunities to watch superstar players in action. Past and current players include the cream of the T20 crop such as Ricky Ponting and Kumar Sangakkara, plus local stars including Tim Paine and George Bailey.
Over and done in three and a half hours, the fast paced all-action style of the Big Bash League is the perfect night out for the whole family. With sixes sailing into the crowd and wickets tumbling regularly, there’s no chance the kids will ever get bored!
WHERE: Bellerive Oval, Hobart
WHEN: December and January
WEBSITE: www.hobarthurricanes.com.au
Which event will you attend?
As you can see, there is literally an event for everyone during the summer months in Hobart.
You can be served the finest dishes by the highest quality chefs; have premium beverages prepared by incredibly talented mixologists with RSA Tasmania qualifications (The RSA qualification (SITHFAB201 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol) can be completed online or by correspondence by Express Online Training (Course RTO 40592); and be entertained by some of the world’s most accomplished musicians and athletes.
While Tasmania may be small in stature compared with its mainland Australian counterparts, it certainly punches above its weight when it comes to natural beauty and summer events.
So do yourself a favour, when it comes time to plan your next summer vacation, don’t discount Tasmania. Booking your flights for Hobart may be the best holiday decision you’ll ever make.
Looking for more Australian inspiration? Don’t forget to check out the Definitive Aussie Bucket List.