Forget autumn hibernation – May’s here with drag queens, world-class wines, fierce felines, and festivals worth stepping out for. Autumn in Adelaide has never looked so good.
Adelaide Equestrian Festival
1-4 May
The only 5-Star equestrian event in the Southern Hemisphere gallops into the Adelaide Parklands, bringing Olympic-level competition right to our doorstep. No other city in the world hosts horse trials smack-bang in its centre, making this a truly unique event. Beyond the dressage, show jumping and eventing thrills, there’s plenty to keep non-horsey folks entertained – markets, food stalls, wine bars, and even a Kids Corral where little ones can meet ponies, play giant chess, and shoot some hoops.
Chardonnay May
1-31 May
This isn’t your granny’s chardy! Adelaide Hills winemakers are showing off their cool-climate credentials all month with tastings, masterclasses and long lunches across the region. From picnic hampers with Chardonnay-infused cream to exclusive museum wines paired with cheeses, there’s a flavour adventure for every palate. The new Chardonnay May Trail adds treasure-hunt fun – collect stamps from five cellar doors to win prizes. With 35 experiences to choose from, it’s time to rediscover this misunderstood grape variety.
South Australia’s History Festival
1-31 May
Forget dusty museums – this festival serves history with a side of fun. Where else can you taste old-school British puddings, shoot an 1850s musket, go ghost hunting in Australia’s most haunted town, or attend a poetry slam in a butter factory? And for the foodies, there’s 19th-century bread fresh from original ovens and even a cajun crab boil. With over 500 events statewide, you’ll find something intriguing happening near you all month long.
Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond
2-11 May
This isn’t just another food festival – it’s a 10-day flavour explosion that’s been running longer than most of us have been adulting. Board a Tasting Australia Airlines flight to bucket-list destinations, learn boozy wisdom in the new Drinks Academy, or just hang at Town Square, the festival’s beating heart. With 15 food vendors, four bars and one beloved dance floor, it’s where you’ll want to park yourself between events. New this year: catch the waiters’ race, swing by the Journey Beyond Lounge, or jump on a regional getaway – from cabernet and jazz in the Barossa to fresh-shucked oysters overlooking Bairds Bay or a magical dessert degustation in McLaren Vale.
Adelaide Water Lantern Festival
3 May
Here’s a chance to be part of something special as thousands of lanterns light up Bonython Park. Part magical visual spectacle, part emotional journey, it’s a surprisingly moving experience to write down your hopes, dreams, or a message to someone special before sending it floating away on the water. Between the glowing lanterns, tasty food trucks, and live music, you’ll find yourself caught in a moment that’s both Instagram-worthy and genuinely soul-satisfying.
Nature Studio
3 May
Want some wholesome arty goodness? Nature Studio is back, inviting people of all skill levels to get creative outdoors. Pack your drawing kit, camera or tablet and head to one of six regional locations across SA to create art inspired by the environment around you. Each spot features a different local artist mentor who’ll share their expertise on everything from seaweed science to tabletop canvasses and weaving. The best part? It’s completely free, materials are provided if you need them, and you’ll walk away with both a unique creation and a deeper connection to our stunning landscapes.
JamFactory Open Day
3 May
Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at this legendary craft and design hub? Now’s your chance to peek behind the curtain – for free! Watch mesmerising glass-blowing demos, try your hand at ceramic building, make a wooden or metal keyring to take home, or even join the wood planing competition in the Furniture Studio. Guided tours will take you through not just the studios but also the galleries and shop, showcasing why JamFactory has been a centre of creative excellence for 50 years. Bring the whole family – this hands-on creativity fest has something for everyone.
SA Medieval Fair
3-4 May
Knights, maidens, and fair folk rejoice! SA’s largest medieval fair is back in the Adelaide Hills hamlet of Paracombe. Come for the jousting, horseback archery, and highland warriors – stay for the nearly 100 artisan stalls, food vendors, and the licensed Pale Raven Tavern serving mulled wine and mead. Whether you’re watching gladiators fight for Roman glory, trying your hand at archery, or entering the costume competition, it’s a weekend where history literally comes alive. Dress in theme for maximum fun!
Trans-Tasman Throwdown – Adelaide
7 May
One of basketball’s fiercest rivalries reignites as Australia faces off against New Zealand in an electrifying showcase. The Boomers will battle the Tall Blacks while the Opals take on the Tall Ferns – all backed by the thunderous energy of a hometown crowd. It’s the first time in years these powerhouse teams have gone head-to-head on Australian soil, making this a must-see for any sports fan. Expect fast breaks, buzzer-beaters, and enough Trans-Tasman tension to keep you on the edge of your seat.
DreamBIG Children’s Festival
7-17 May
The world’s oldest children’s festival is turning 50, and they’re celebrating with an epic party. With more than 70 shows, activities, and exhibitions across 10 days – including nine world premieres – it’s a creativity explosion for young imaginations. Catch Playschool star Zindzi with her hip-hop band, watch your kid pilot a giant puppet, play music using “magical” plant sensors, or be enchanted by the picture book world of Imagine LIVE on stage. The festival culminates with Big Family Weekend – two days packed with over 50 free events around the Festival Centre. After entertaining over 2.5 million SA kids since 1974, they’ve got this fun thing down to an art.
German Film Festival
7-28 May
Cinema lovers, get ready for a feast of Deutsch delights! This year’s lineup features 20 standout films, from Berlinale festival highlights to box office smashes and compelling documentaries about Germany’s most iconic artists. Don’t miss the opening night’s romantic comedy Long Story Short with its all-star cast, the provocative thriller Hysteria, or closing night psychological chiller Mother’s Baby. Film buffs should look out for Riefenstahl, exploring the complicated legacy of the infamous filmmaker, and Sandra Hüller fans can catch her in the heist comedy Two to One.
Flight
8-10 May
Opera gets a contemporary edge with Jonathan Dove’s acclaimed Flight, returning to Adelaide after almost 20 years. Inspired by the true story of an Iranian refugee who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years (yes, like that Tom Hanks movie), this production blends humour and heartbreak in an airport terminal during a storm. With Australian director Stephen Barlow at the helm and a stellar cast including British countertenor James Laing and our own Teddy Tahu Rhodes, it’s opera for people who think they don’t like opera. The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra provides the soundtrack to this story of human connection in unlikely places.
Beauty and the Beast
8 May – 6 July
This much-loved Disney classic will open at the Adelaide Festival Centre from mid-May. Based on the much-loved 1991 animated film, this latest production is a reimagined version of the original, which played for more than 13 years on Broadway. Featuring spellbinding songs like Belle, Gaston and Be Our Guest, the production has just finished touring Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. The Adelaide season will include a relaxed performance on 14 June in partnership with Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) and Autism SA.
Urban Wine Walk Adelaide
10 May
Why trek to wine country when the wine country can come to you? This autumn, 10 of Adelaide’s coolest venues transform into urban cellar doors for a self-guided tasting adventure through city streets and laneways. Start wherever you fancy – 99 Gang Social, Alfred’s Bar, Bank Street Social – then wander between spots sampling drops from stellar South Australian winemakers like Paxton, White Gate Wine Co, and Oliver’s Taranga. It’s like a pub crawl for grown-ups with taste, and without the need for a designated driver.
True Grit SA
10-11 May
Think you’re tough? Prove it at Australia’s first military-style obstacle course designed by former Special Forces. Choose your poison: the full 10km course with 30 obstacles or the half course if you’re not quite commando-ready yet. Set against the stunning backdrop of Caudo Vineyard on the banks of the Murray River, you’ll crawl through vineyards, scramble across sand dunes, and splash through water in what’s billed as Australia’s most diverse obstacle course. Tackle it solo or round up your mates for team discounts – and don’t forget to book on-site camping to recover by the bonfire afterward.
Battunga Weekend
10-11 May
The charming towns of Meadows, Macclesfield, Echunga, Flaxley and Prospect Hill are throwing open their doors for a weekend of exploration through one of SA’s hidden gems of a region. From gold rush history to agricultural riches, the Battunga region is packed with fascinating stories just waiting to be discovered. Markets, music, artists’ studios, local food – it’s all here for the curious traveller.
Mother’s Day Gin High Tea at Prohibition
11 May
Give Mum the royal treatment with Prohibition’s elegant high tea experience. Their special Mother’s Day tower of deliciousness features delicate finger sandwiches, gourmet savoury bites, sweet treats, and freshly baked scones with jam and cream. The highlight? A signature “Mum’s G&T” and exclusive Gin Chocolate Truffle to complement the spread. With morning and afternoon sittings available, it’s a sophisticated celebration that beats flowers any day.
Mamma Mia: Mothers Day Luncheon at Haselgrove Wines
11 May
Last year’s sell-out event is back by popular demand! Mamma Mia celebrates motherhood Italian-style, with hand-stretched pizzas, artisan cheese platters, and delicious Italian dolce to finish. Welcome Mum with a glass of bubbles as you settle in for a feast with McLaren Vale’s picturesque vineyards as your backdrop. This is the Mother’s Day celebration that lets you ditch the cooking and washing up in favour of quality time (and quality wine).
Mother’s Day with ela
11 May
For mothers who deserve a little luxury, Hotel Alba’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant ela is rolling out the red carpet. Their Bottomless Lunch experience features two hours of flowing gin spritz, mimosas and prosecco alongside a parade of their signature Med-inspired share plates. Each mum gets welcomed with a special Mother’s Day cocktail before settling in for a sun-soaked feast that feels like a European holiday without the airfare.
Mother’s Day Picnic at Paxton Wines
11 May
Why stress about Mother’s Day lunch when you can spread out on Paxton’s luscious lawns instead? This relaxed vineyard picnic has all the ingredients for a perfect day: live music from Courtney Hooper, gourmet wood-fired pizzas from Doughballs, and Paxton’s excellent wines flowing freely.
Kernewek Lowender Copper Coast Cornish Festival
12-18 May
The towns of Kadina, Moonta, and Wallaroo transform into a slice of Cornwall for Australia’s largest Cornish festival. Now in its 50th year, this unique celebration packs in over 60 events across seven pasty-fuelled days. Over 30,000 visitors watch locals don traditional Cornish costumes for street parades, witness the intense competition of the pasty bake-off, and cheer on the maypole and furry dances. There’s also a cavalcade of classic cars and motorcycles, art exhibitions, and plenty of opportunities to sample a locally-brewed “Swanky” (a traditional Cornish beverage).
Sigur Rós Orchestral Tour
16-17 May
Iceland’s most celebrated post-rock band joins forces with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra for a once-in-a-lifetime musical event. Sigur Rós’ ethereal, otherworldly soundscapes were made for orchestral treatment, especially tracks from their 2023 album, ÁTTA. Expect to be transported somewhere between heaven and Reykjavík as Jónsi’s haunting falsetto soars above the lush orchestration.
Nymphia Wind’s Banana Ball
16 May
Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16 and Taiwan’s national treasure, Nymphia Wind, brings her signature yellow-themed extravaganza to Adelaide. This isn’t just another drag show – it’s a celebration of pure banana artistry, authenticity, and talent that’s rare even in the drag world. Rock up in Nymphia’s signature yellow for the ultimate experience, and prepare for dazzling performances, runway competitions, and a night that’ll have you saying “Yes, we have no bananas” in the best possible way. Local queens and DJs will keep the energy poppin’ all night long.
Clare Valley Gourmet Week
16-25 May
Australia’s longest-running wine and food festival is back for its 41st year, and it’s expanded to 10 days of gourmet indulgence. The new Gourmet Bus Trails take the planning (and designated driver drama) out of your hands with curated full-day itineraries through Clare’s food and wine wonderland. Kick off with the main festival weekend’s feasting, wine events, and live music, then stick around for the “Breathe It In” calendar of intimate masterclasses and behind-the-scenes experiences. Cap it all off with the “Land of the Long Lunch” finale weekend, where famous foodies host unique long-table feasts in secret spots across the region.
Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival
16-18 May
The charming town of Penola and the renowned Coonawarra wine region team up for four days of creativity, culture, and excellent red wine. This beloved festival packs in everything from visual art exhibitions and the Poets of Penola competition to the raucous Coonawarra Vignerons Music Night of Shenanigans. With a comprehensive family program alongside literary events and fine food and wine, it’s the perfect excuse to discover this gorgeous corner of South Australia.
The English Ale
17 May
Part folk ritual, part theatre, part magic – this enchanting gathering in Mylor isn’t something you merely watch but something you wander into. Giants stride through gum trees, guisers emerge from shadows, and Morris dancers strike ancient rhythms as old English seasonal rites unfold. Enjoy shanty singers, mummer plays, and Punch & Judy by day. At dusk, join the torchlight procession to witness the Wicker Man’s fiery transformation before dancing the night away with Spiral Dance’s folk-rock. Bring a mask and become part of the magic!
Vino and Vibes
17-18 May
Think of this as a next-level pub crawl. Eight venues across Adelaide’s southern CBD transform into cellar-door experiences, offering themed wine, beer, and spirit tastings alongside live music and entertainment. Best of all? Free hop-on, hop-off transport between venues means no arguing about who’s driving. From acoustic sessions at The Original Coopers Alehouse to funk and disco vibes at Prohibition Liquor Co, there’s a spot (and a drop) for every taste. Entry is free unless otherwise stated, meaning your only investment is in good times.
Oz Feline Fair & CATstravaganza
17-18 May
Cat people, this one’s for you! The inaugural Oz Feline Fair is partnering with celebrity cat judge Steven Meserve to bring his Loving Cats Worldwide International Cat Competition to Adelaide. Beyond ogling fancy competition felines and adorable rescue kittens, you can shop the Purr-Creations Alley artisan marketplace, sample craft spirits from Two Cats Distillery, or enter the cat cosplay competition. The Very Important Cat and Very Important Kitten competitions on the Catwalk promise to be the furriest fashion shows in town.
Looking For Alibrandi
22-31 May
The iconic Australian coming-of-age novel and beloved film gets fresh life on stage in this critically acclaimed adaptation. Fresh from sold-out seasons in Sydney and Melbourne, it follows 17-year-old Josephine Alibrandi during her last year of school as she navigates three generations of women, her Italian-Australian heritage, and discovers the Alibrandi she’s been searching for. Directed by Stephen Nicolazzo, the new Artistic Director of Brink Productions, this 90s-set story of identity, love and belonging is as relevant today as when it first captured Australia’s heart.
Adelaide Cabaret Fringe Festival
23 May – 1 June
The cheeky sibling of Adelaide’s Cabaret Festival is back for another year of affordable, experimental, and deliciously unpredictable performances. ‘CabFinge’s’ open access platform gives emerging talent a chance to shine, making it a beloved SA winter institution. Expect everything from sequins and showstoppers to avant-garde weirdness and breakout stars in the making across venues throughout Adelaide. And with every ticket supporting independent artists and metro venues during the quieter months, this is entertainment with heart.
Dangerously Modern: Australian women artists in Europe 1890-1940
24 May – 7 September
Finally, an exhibition giving credit where it’s overdue. The Art Gallery of South Australia showcases over 200 stunning works by trailblazing Australian women who defied convention to pursue art careers in Europe. Explore bold statements, intimate portraits and vibrant innovations that challenge traditional views of modernism and rewrite art history, one masterpiece at a time.
Nunga Screen 2025
28 May – 12 July
For over a decade, Nunga Screen has been sharing First Nations culture, stories, and language through film, and this year’s program continues the tradition. The 90-minute showcase features short films across both scripted and documentary formats, with roughly half the content engaging for young viewers too. This free event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect and learn through powerful storytelling about history, healing, belonging, community and connection to Country. Catch it in locations including Renmark, Port Pirie, Mount Gambier, Marree, Gawler and Whyalla.
Oz Comic-Con Adelaide
31 May – 1 June
Superheroes, sci-fi characters, and pop culture icons take over the Adelaide Showgrounds for a weekend of geektastic fun. Meet headliners including Brandon Rogers (Helluva Boss), Catherine Tate (Dr Who), and Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad), grab autographs and photo ops with your faves, or strut your stuff in the cosplay competition. Artist Alley showcases local and international talent, while gaming zones cater to console, PC, and tabletop enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned convention-goer or a curious first-timer, Comic-Con promises an immersive celebration of all things pop culture.
