Winter has arrived, and it’s time to embrace the chill and explore the coolest events happening in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. From trendy igloo bars on the banks of Brisbane River to lively winter markets, festivals and fun runs, we have the inside scoop on the most exciting winter events in these vibrant Aussie cities. Best of all, you can easily reach them all from View Hotels.

 

Sydney

Bondi Festival

Grab your winter woollies and make the most of the Bondi Festival this June and July. Located at the newly revamped Bondi Pavilion, this Sydney winter festival celebrates good food, music, and fun. Glide across the ice at the spectacular ice-skating rink, indulge in mouthwatering food and drink stalls, and immerse yourself in the buzzing atmosphere of live music performances as you explore the winter market. Bondi Festival is the ideal winter escape, whether you’re chasing a chilly adrenaline rush on the ice or a festive spot to relax.

Image via Bondi Festival

The Bastille Festival

Take a quick harbour cruise from View Sydney to immerse yourself in the best of French culture and cuisine at the Bastille Festival in Circular Quay. With an enticing lineup of live music, entertainment, French wine, and cheese, the Bastille Festival lays the foundations for a fun day with family and friends. Whether you’re a devoted Francophile or just craving a cultural hit, Sydney’s Bastille Festival is a winter must-do activity, ensuring you’re momentarily whisked to the heart of France.

 

City2Surf

Strap on your sneakers and prepare to get ready, set and go with the tens of thousands of runners who make their way to Sydney’s annual City2Surf in the winter. Kicking off in Hyde Park, just a 20-minute bus ride from View Hotel, and finishing in world-renowned Bondi Beach, the scenic route covers a distance of 14 kilometres across Sydney’s coastline and Heartbreak Hill. With its energetic atmosphere, cheering spectators, live music and post-run food stalls, there’s no reason not to add this event to your 2023 winter bucket list.

Image via City2Surf

 

Brisbane

The Ekka

No matter how old you are, the Ekka (aka Royal Queensland Show) is an exciting day out for everyone. Running from August 12th to 20th, be prepared for a jam-packed day of entertainment, from live reptile shows to dance performances, a Dagwood Dog Eating Competition, adrenaline-pumping rides, and more! Plus, treat yourself to an iconic Strawberry Sundae, exclusively served at the Ekka to support the funding for life-saving medical research. By night, equestrian performances, thrilling V8 and motocross displays and a spectacular fireworks display are just a few of the events on the itinerary. Don’t forget to grab a showbag on your way out too!

Image via The Common Good

 

Customs House Igloo Bar

Brisbane’s Customs House is turning it up this winter with its unique Igloo Bar. Perched upon the banks of the Brisbane River, a short CityCat ride from View Brisbane, this temporary pop-up bar transforms into a winter wonderland with cosy igloos. Step inside to enjoy comfortable seating and heating while staring at panoramic city views and sipping champagne and cocktails. The Igloo Bar at Customs House is a popular spot for socialising with friends or date night during the colder months, offering a stunning setting to escape the chill.

Image via Customs House

 

Scenic Rim Eat Local Month

Scenic Rim Eat Local Month is a winter festival celebrating the region’s rich culinary heritage and fresh produce. As part of this month-long celebration, the Winter Harvest Festival takes centre stage, featuring the best of the Scenic Rim’s local produce, from artisanal cheeses and organic vegetables to award-winning wines and craft beers. Eat your way around the Scenic Rim with food tastings, cooking demonstrations, and farm tours. The Scenic Rim Eat Local Month offers a great opportunity to connect with local farmers and producers, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable and locally sourced food.

Image via Eat Local Month

 

Melbourne

Winter Night Market

Experience the seasonal magic at Melbourne’s Winter Night Markets at Queen Victoria Market, reachable by public transport from View Hotel. Every Wednesday night, the market transforms into a lively hub of the city’s best street food traders, brewers, distillers, artisans, and live entertainment. Allow your senses permission to go wild on an abundance of multicultural aromas and flavours to a soundtrack of cool beats and community vibes. Melbourne’s Winter Night Markets are a must-do winter activity for any food lover looking for a good time.

Image via City of Melbourne

 

Lightscape Melbourne

Step into the captivating world of Lightscape Melbourne, where artistry, innovation and nature collide. As darkness falls, the Royal Botanic Gardens transform into a winter wonderland of light with 20,000 dancing LEDs, singing trees, and a flickering fire garden amidst a sea of vibrant installations, soundscapes, and illuminated sculptures. There’s also a selection of food trucks on standby for your casual dining needs. So, for a sensory journey guaranteed to inspire, Lightscape Melbourne is a winter activity that shouldn’t be missed.

 

Road Trip Destinations

As marvellous as the city is, the surrounding regions have just as much to offer. Venture to Mornington Peninsula to rejuvenate your sense of wellbeing at Peninsula Hot Springs, a gorgeous day spa and natural facility of geothermal mineral springs. Or, turn your stay into a ski trip and hit the slopes at Lake Mountain, Mt Buller or Mt Hotham, all within a half-day trip from View Melbourne. There is an incredible array of experiences surrounding Melbourne that are definitely worth the drive!