From the Margaret River Gourmet Escape to the Kimberley Ord Valley Muster…don't miss out on WA's top events.
Leeuwin Concert
This renowned Margaret River event has a 30-year history and has seen the likes of Ray Charles, Tom Jones and Sting perform at the exquisite Leeuwin Estate Winery. The event is held over two days, with tickets usually on sale mid to late November (the Saturday is always first to sell-out). The winery's concert ground is the perfect setting to enjoy the show, and is easily among the top outdoor venues in Western Australia – the main ground is a large grassed area, surrounded by picturesque forest; the singers are often accompanied by laughing kookaburras. After the performance, corporate attendees are treated to a sit-down black-tie dinner with dancing until late, while other guests can picnic in the main arena. Margaret River, February
Tip Grab shuttle-bus tickets, too. The bus picks up and drops off at major points around Margaret River.
Sunsmart Ironman 70.3
This gruelling event is one the longest of its kind in the country (and the southern hemisphere) – with a testing combination of 1.9km swim, 90.1km bike ride through the Tuart Forest, and a 21.1km run along the foreshore. It's not all about the athletes – it's just as exciting for the spectators, who can watch some of the world's best triathletes tackle the difficult course. Busselton, May
Margaret River Gourmet Escape
There'll be a host of major-league chefs flying in to see what our state has to offer during this three-day event. Big names from previous years include Heston Blumenthal, Rick Stein, George Calombaris and Neil Perry. There's a huge range of events, from the Beach BBQ Dinner (tickets get snapped up fast for this one) to vineyard lunches and culinary classrooms. If you don't get your hands on a major ticket, never fear: the Gourmet Village is the ultimate place to chill out and spend your time, with a large variety of packages to choose from, starting at general entry and going up to platinum tickets (with wine tastings and access to the Leeuwin Estate Restaurant). You can park at Leeuwin Estate (home of the Gourmet Village) but it's definitely advisable to book a shuttle bus. Also, if it's a hot day, or you have a few too many vinos, there's free water available.
Margaret River, November
Kalgoorlie Races
The Kalgoorlie Cup in September draws visitors from far and wide to take part in the spectacle, and it is certainly not to be missed. One of the most iconic events on the national racing stage, the cup is just one event in the week-long festival of celebration, the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Race Round. Kalgoorlie, September
Great Southern Bloom Festival
For five weeks, visitors will be delighted by the wildflowers on offer in the Great Southern. During this springtime festival, the diversity and beauty of the region is celebrated with more than 50 events covering eight shires. Whether you're a painter, nature lover, gardener or a self-drive fanatic, there will be something for everyone, including long table lunches, shows, tours and open gardens. Great Southern, September
Drug Aware Margaret River Pro
The Drug Aware Pro brings international surfers and would-be champions to town, and it's now got World Class Tour status, bringing it level with other well-known events on the surfing calendar such as Hawaii's Banzai Pipeline. You'll find the main action at Surfer's Point in Prevelly, but there's plenty going on in and around Margs during the tournament. If you're staying around town, head to Settlers Tavern for potential photo ops with the pros. Margaret River, April
Tip Book your accommodation as early as possible.
IGA Taste Great Southern
This event will make you fall in love with the scenic region and its food – it's a celebration of all local produce that's edible or drinkable. There's a range of free events and ticketed events, from culinary master classes to lunches and degustation dinners (escape the crowds and try something midweek!). If you're keen to go to an event with a big-name chef be sure to book early, because those sell out the quickest. Denmark & Albany, February and March
Kimberley Ord Valley Muster
This ten-day festival has an eclectic mix of talent, including Australia's most celebrated musicians, gastronomic masterminds and local acts. There are more than 30 events, ranging from local favourites to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Kimberley Kitchen and the exclusive Durack Homestead Dinner (tickets sell out in a flash!). The Airnorth Kimberley Moon Experience showcases some of Australia's finest crooners – be sure to grab a ticket for the Kimberley Fine Diamonds Corporate Circle; these, too, sell fast, so don't waste time. Kununurra & Wyndham, June
Perth International Arts Festival
The three-week long festival attracts over 700,000 people to events in Perth (and there's some in the Great Southern region, too!). Artistic director Jonathon Holloway (originally from the UK) is up-to-date with the international arts scene, and is the driving force behind the festival's success in recent years, and the high-energy international, national and local acts. Highlights include interactive theatre performances, alternative music, and installation art pieces around the city. Perth, March
Avon Descent
This punishing weekend event sees competitors take on a 124km-long whitewater run in a variety of powered and paddle craft. If you aren't participating, you can still watch the race unfold, and cheer on the participants from the banks of the river (check out www.avondescent.com.au to discover specific spectator spots). Toodyay, August
Pinctada Cable Beach Polo
An extraordinary sporting spectacle that spans three days and attracts both local and international polo players. Event-goers watch for free on the sand, or can buy tickets to the beach bar. There's also the exclusive VIP marquee if you've got a hankering for French champagne and exceptional food (be sure to grab your ticket early). Broome, May
Northwest Festival
With the Pilbara as an awesome location, this event is among the top festivals in the northwest, and has hosted Aussie artists including Paul Kelly, Vance Joy, The Living End, The Cat Empire and loads more. Even better, it has now been expanded over the whole weekend, so you can enjoy great music across two nights, and free camping on Friday and Saturday nights. It's a great chance to explore the surrounding region too, including the stunning Karijini National Park. Port Hedland, August
Fairbridge Festival
The Fairbridge Festival is an annual family-friendly celebration of folk and world music in a traffic-free, self-contained rural village with something for everyone. Almost 100 acts will entertain you over the three days – it's a great excuse for a short escape from everyday life. Even with the incredible live music, this is much more than just a folk music festival: there are street performances, the artist in residence (Brendon Darby), and the integral children's and youth festivals. The event has been a firm favourite for over 20 years, and takes place just 5km north of Pinjarra, only an hour's drive from central Perth. You can come for the day or camp for the three-day weekend! Tickets go fast, as do the camping spots, so get in early. Fairbridge, April
Truffle Kerfuffle
This epic event is celebration of the famed fungi, complete with demonstrations, tastings, master classes, truffle hunt and a gala dinner. Even if you're not keen to go to an event,a visit to the farmers market is worthwhile! You can chat to the producers, sample products, and if you want to buy something in the future, you can sign up to a mailing list (many of the products can be shipped to Perth). Manjimup, June
The Perth Kilt Run
Few things could be more fun than raising money for charity by running around in a kilt through the picturesque foothills and parkland of Minnawarra Park and Sanctuary Lake in Armadale. There will be loads of laughs during the inaugural run – you can join the 5km 'official' challenge, or there's the 2.5km Leisure Run. Bus routes and trains are close by and it's an easy walk to the park. Best of all, the event is for all ages and abilities (it's wheelchair-friendly)… all you need is a kilt! After the run, celebrate at WA's largest Scots-themed event, the Highland Gathering, with highland dancing, strongman competition, Celtic food, market stalls and more. Armadale, September
Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest
This epic event is the second-largest free community festival in WA, attracting a whopping 140,000 visitors to Mandurah over the two days. There are loads of great attractions (even if you aren't that keen on crabs!) including live music, a kids' entertainment area, and action sports games. It's usually still pretty toasty in March along the Mandurah Foreshore, but there are fountains where you can fill your water bottles, as well as market stalls and plenty of vendors where you can have a bite to eat. Mandurah, March
Fringe World Festival
For all events kooky and eccentric, look no further than Fringe. It's a mixed bag of acts, from cabaret to drag and comedy performances. There's huge range of live performances – national and international – as well as small local favourites. It's best to check the reviews if you're feeling indecisive, and bear in mind that some of the acts are boundary-pushing and ummm, rather sexual. Before or after events, or just whenever you feel like it, you can chill out in outdoor food and drinks hub The Pleasure Garden – the coloured lanterns make for a pretty photo – or there's the Urban Orchard in the Cultural Centre. Perth, January-February
Australia Day
Australia Day is more than just a public holiday – it's a day of festivity, as Aussies old and new celebrate what's great about the land Down Under, and reflect on what it means to be Australian. More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the City of Armadale Australia Day fireworks celebrations at the beautiful Minnawarra Park – a perfect venue for main-stage entertainment and a stunning sky show. Celebrations will commence with a live concert, children's activities and carnival rides, but the real highlight of the day will be when Armadale turns on one of the largest, most spectacular fireworks displays in WA at 8.30pm. Best of all, it's easy to get to – you can catch either the bus or train because the Armadale stations are just a short stroll to Minnawarra Park. To keep up-to-date with all the info, 'like' the City of Armadale Facebook page. Armadale, January
Minnawarra Art Awards
The City of Armadale's popular Minnawarra Art Awards and Exhibition will be open for viewing from early May for just over two weeks. The exhibition attracts over 100 artist submissions and will feature works of nationally and internationally renowned artists including Sue Coode, Andrew Kay and Deborah Bonar. You can see a range of media from oil, to acrylic, sculpture, printmaking and photography. With the help of corporate supporters Stockland and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority, the City provides substantial prizes in the form of cash, acquisitions and commissions. The exhibition will also feature a selection of stylish entertainment along the lines of harp recitals. Armadale, May
Boyup Brook Country Music Festival
The Boyup Brook Country Music Festival is the state's largest event for country music fans – four big days of music and fun. Along with live music there's the WA Country Music Awards, Bush Poets Breakfast, street carnival and markets, Art Awards & Exhibition, Workshops and the Boyup Ute & Truck Muster. Boyup Brook, February
Boddington Lions Rodeo
If you haven't been to a rodeo before, what's stopping you? One of the most fun
and family-orientated events you'll find on the WA events calendar, the Boddington Lions Rodeo is held on the first Saturday of November every year and is recognised as the largest rodeo in Western Australia. The rodeo weekend has something in store for everyone – there is a huge range of highlights including shearing competition, fine arts and crafts, carnival rides, entertainment and great bands. And of course there's the rodeo itself with bull riding, steer wrestling, bareback riding and much more! Tickets sell out quickly, so you'll want to grab one as early as you can. Boddington, November
TOP 100* ANNUAL EVENTS
JANUARY
Mount Barker Co-operative Ltd Grapes & Gallops, Mount Barker
Western Australian Circus Festival, Karridale
Lancelin Ocean Classic, Lancelin
Mandurah Cup 100 Club, Pinjarra
Australia Day in Armadale, Armadale
Fringe World Festival, Northbridge
FEBRUARY
IGA Taste Great Southern Festival, Great Southern
Be Active Busselton Jetty Swim, Busselton
Boyup Brook Country Music Festival, Boyup Brook
Redink Homes Geographe Bay Race Week, Busselton
HBF Rottnest Channel Swim, Rottnest
South West Craft Beer Festival, Metricup
Leeuwin Concert Series, Margaret River
Perth International Arts Festival, Perth
MARCH
Drug Aware Margaret River Pro, Margaret River
Nannup Music Festival, Nannup
Harvey Harvest Festival, Harvey
Augusta River Festival, Augusta
Wagin Woolorama, Wagin
Bunbury Aqua Spectacular, Bunbury
GAMEX Fishing Tournament, Exmouth
Porongurup Wine Festival, Porongurup
Donnybrook Apple Festival, Donnybrook
Multicultural Night Under the Stars, Bunbury
Katanning Harmony Festival, Katanning
Country Cups: XXXX Gold Bunbury Cup, Bunbury
Festival of the Wind, Esperance
Bunuru Culture and Corroboree Festival, Yallingup
Avon Valley Vintage Festival, Northam
Sail Mandurah in March Regatta, Mandurah
Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Festival, Mandurah
APRIL
Margaret River Wine Region Festival, Margaret River
Quit Forest Rally, Busselton
Karri Valley Triathlon, Pemberton
Geraldton Cup, Geraldton
Balingup Small Farm Field Day, Balingup
Delirium 24-Hour Cycle Race, Margaret River
Blackwood River Chamber Music Festival, Bridgetown
Mandurah Rotary Duck Race, Mandurah
Fairbridge Festival, Fairbridge
Charles Cup, Guildford
Kalamunda Show, Kalamunda
Gooseberry Hill Arts and Crafts Exhibition, Gooseberry Hill
Northam Flying 50, Northam
MAY
North West Expo Broome, Broome
Argyle Diamond Ord Valley Muster, Kununurra
Pinctada Cable Beach Polo Festival, Broome
The Gibb Challenge, Derby
Ningaloo Whale Shark Festival, Exmouth
Kilarnee Targa South West Car Rally, Pemberton
SunSmart Busselton Festival of Triathlon, Busselton
Armadale Grand Fono, Armadale
Moondyne Festival, Toodyay
Avon Valley Gourmet Food & Wine Festival, Northam
Dwellingup Pumpkin Festival, Dwellingup
Bickley Harvest Festival, Carmel
Minnawarra Art Awards, Armadale
St. Jerome's Laneway Festival, Fremantle
JUNE
Denmark Festival of Voice, Denmark
Red Dog Festival, Karratha
Broome Racing, Broome
Roebourne Races, Karratha
Airnorth Kimberley Moon Experience, Kununurra
Truffle Kerfuffle Southern Forest Food Festival, Manjimup
Albany Classic Motor Event, Albany
JULY
Derby Boab Festival, Derby
Cossack Art Awards, Karratha
Kimberley Writers Festival, Wyndham
Goldfields Kidsfest, Kalgoorlie
Wyndham Stars on the Bastion, Wyndham
NAIDOC Week, Yanchep
AUGUST
Kimberley Cup, Broome
Flower and Garden Festival, Nannup
Opera Under the Stars, Broome
Act Belong Commit Avon Descent, Northam/Toodyay
North West Festival, Port Hedland
South Midlands Polocrosse Clubs Annual Tournament, Muchea
Serpentine Jarrahdale Community Fair, Mundijong
Lions FeNaClNG Festival, Karratha
SEPTEMBER
The Annual Mullewa Agricultural Show, Mullewa
Perth Kilt Run, Armadale
Dwellingup 100 MTB Classic, Dwellingup
Australasian Safari, Golden Outback
Chittering Wildflower Festival, Bindoon
Perth Royal Show, Claremont
Great Southern Bloom Festival, Great Southern
Shinju Matsuri Festival of the Pearl, Broome
Bendigo Bank Southern Art & Craft Trail, Great Southern
Country Cups: XXXX Gold Kalgoorlie Cup, Kalgoorlie
OCTOBER
Cambinata Yabbies Extravaganza, Golden Outback
Dolphin City Central, Bunbury
Cape to Cape MTB, Augusta to Dunsborough
Tough Mudder, Copely
Country Cups: XXXX Gold Northam Cup, Northam
Mandurah Antiques and Collectors Fair, Pinjarra
Mandurah Children's Festival, Mandurah
Fremantle Festival, Fremantle
Perth Fashion Festival, Perth
Angove Street Festival, North Perth
NOVEMBER
Margaret River Gourmet Escape, Margaret River
Augusta Adventure Fest, Augusta
Darlington Arts Festival, Darlington
Beverley Harvest Festival, Beverley
Boddington Lions Rodeo, Boddington
Beaufort Street Festival, Mount Lawley
Pridefest, Northbridge
DECEMBER
SunSmart IRONMAN WA Triathlon, Busselton
Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival, Manjimup
Subi Street Festival, Subiaco
George Street Festival, East Fremantle
*Yeah, so there's 109 but who's counting?!?
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