As South Australia prepares to celebrate 25 years of the Santos Tour Down Under, we share our top 10 TDU highlights – as well as tips from cycling legend Anna Meares.
As the largest cycling event in the southern hemisphere, the TDU brings the world’s best male and female cyclists to South Australia, turning the state into an international stage for 10 days of high-octane racing and festivities.
Last year, the TDU brought 770,600 fans together, injected $87 million into SA’s economy, and reached audiences in 190 countries worldwide – proving it’s far more than just a race.
With so much TDU action on offer, figuring out where to start can be overwhelming.
But don’t sweat – here’s your guide to the highlights, so you can make the most of this epic event as it takes over South Australia from 17-26 January.
Top 10 TDU highlights
Cheering on the riders from the sidelines is a free thrill. Towns along the way will be buzzing with entertainment, while new live sites let you watch the action on big screens as the peloton flies by in real time.
TDU insider tips for spectators
-Plan ahead with the TDU website’s maps and schedules.
-Arrive an hour early to snag a good spot and catch the Tour Parade.
-Pack sunscreen, water, and a hat to beat the heat.
-Follow the Tour de Bakery guide to find the best local snacks.
-Don’t forget your cowbell – It’s the unofficial soundtrack of the TDU.
Go VIP with private race viewing, gourmet long lunches, and wine tastings. These packages offer the ultimate way to experience the TDU in style.
Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga transforms into the heart of the TDU festival, featuring rider Q&As, a bike expo, and even a recovery zone with ice baths and physio. Plus, enjoy live music, food trucks, and knock-off drinks every evening.
Kick off the festival with team presentations, giveaways, and a high-energy performance by Hot Dub Time Machine – it’s all free at the Tour Village.
Cool off at the seaside with sweet treats, live music, and fashion parades at South Australia’s biggest ice cream festival on Jetty Road.
Six floors of parking lot mayhem with DJs and rooftop drinks make this quirky event unmissable. Afterwards, kick on at the free Vardon Avenue Street Party.
Packed with activities like smoothie bikes, ninja courses, the Tiny Tour for under-fives, and the Health Partners Family Ride featuring Anna Meares, Family Day is fun for all ages.
Tanunda comes alive with street performers, live music, and family-friendly festivities, all while cyclists tackle this scenic stage.
Settle in under the stars at the Tour Village for an evening of inspiring short films about cycling.
End the week on a high: Back-to-back races on Adelaide’s city circuit, plus family fun at Festival Plaza and premium views with party vibes at the Hillside Social.
Anna Meares on why she loves the TDU
Anna Meares OAM OLY is one of Australia’s greatest athletes – and she’s bringing her passion for the sport home as ambassador for the Santos Tour Down Under Health Partners Family Ride.
“I’m looking forward to returning to the event for its 25th year to ride with my family,” Anna says. “The Santos Tour Down Under (TDU) has been a key part of my family’s summer for a long time now.”
Anna will be riding alongside her two children, four-year-old Evelyn and three-year-old Bill. “They loved riding the closed circuit in front of the crowd last year,” she says. “I can’t wait to share that experience with them again and encourage families to dust off their bikes and enjoy some cycling fun in Adelaide this summer.”
For Anna, the TDU isn’t just about the sport – it reflects the small joys of South Australian life she loves most, like cycling Adelaide’s bike paths with a friend, catching up over great coffee or enjoying gelato at Henley Beach with her kids.
“It’s a showcase of what the state has to offer,” Anna says. “You don’t have to like cycling to enjoy the festivities – there’s something for everyone.”
Why Anna is an Adelaide icon
Anna’s career spans four Olympic Games, where she cemented her place as one of the world’s all-time great cyclists.
“While I could certainly describe defining moments in every Olympic contest, the first in Athens as a young 20-year-old really made me believe in my ability. Beijing solidified my gratitude and ambition, London culminated an incredible strategy against the world’s best, and Rio wrapped up a long and consistent career,” she says.
These days, Anna continues to inspire others, leading Australia’s Olympic Team in Paris as Chef de Mission – a role she’ll reprise at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. She also serves as an ambassador and commentator for the Santos Tour Down Under, relishing the opportunity to connect with her hometown each year.
Anna has been a TDU ambassador since 2015 and says being asked to represent the event as the women’s race was being developed is one of her favourite memories. The women’s race debuted as part of the TDU in 2016, marking a major milestone for the event.
Another cherished memory is sitting next to the legendary Phil Liggett in the commentary box for the first time. “I found myself so mesmerised by his voice and skill that I forgot I was supposed to add to his commentary!” she says.
Visit the Santos Tour Down Under website for all the latest updates, event details, and maps.
