Since 2020, many Australian festivals have been relocated, postponed or cancelled outright, many as a result of Covid years or extreme weather events including rain, flood and fires.
Furthermore, the possibility that an event might be cancelled has led to a reticence in purchasing until much closer to the date. And this plays havoc with promoters’ calculations, based on historical sales tracking data, about whether and when they will cover their costs, which in turn is factored into the tough calls being made about whether to go ahead.
“There is a generation who missed out …. We’ve had a fundamental shift. If you grew up in a pandemic, going into an enclosed space that’s small and meant to hold lots of people just might not be the same vibe you’re looking for. It’s also really hard when we have a cost-of-living crisis, when tickets are going up.”
Why supporting Festivals is important?
By definition, festivals attract visitors. And visitors spend money, which boosts the local economy both on and off the festival site. Moreover, its fair to say festivals foster community pride, teach people new things, and strengthen relationships.
Sadly, the Dark Mofo, Tasmania’s biggest festival was cancelled in September 2023 as organisers felt the need to “take stock of changing conditions and rising costs in order to reset the festival for the future”. However, hot of the press, the news is in – the mid-winter festival is back on! Scaled down to only include the Winter Feast, Nude Solstice Swim, and Winter at the Garden, the organisers couldn’t leave the city of Hobart.
Dark Mofo – created by the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) celebrates ancient pagan rituals and everywhere you turn, there is music, art and food.
Gaining in popularity every year, nearly half a million attendees from around the globe come to celebrate this much anticipated annual event. As a festival that values independent thinking, Hobart becomes a virtual playground for the fun-loving, yet twisted fantasies of residents and visitors alike.
The Winter Feast is held almost every day of the festival, and provides exceptional food and drink. A gastronomic paradise, attendees have a vast option to please the palate. Whether you install yourself inside under the red neon lights at one of the elongated tables or gather around a pit fire outside while listening to an array of musical performances, you’ll find yourself in jolly spirits.
The city of Hobart is lit up (literally) and major exhibitions can be found all over town, theatres and public venues. Consult the schedule each year for details on exhibits and shows.
In 2024, the Winter Feast will cover two weeks at Princes Wharf 1 (PW1), from Thursday, June 13 to Sunday, June 16 and Thursday, June 20 to Sunday, June 23. Check here for admission prices and opening hours.
Getting There?
Although most interstate and international visitors arrive at the Hobart airport, it’s good to avoid the crowds! Hire a car from Everything Fleet and travel from Melbourne on the Spirit of Tasmania.
Be sure to book in advance, as this is an extremely popular event that draws hundreds of thousands of people.
Discover why Tasmania is home to world-class, award-winning food and drink. Wear loose-fitting clothing and don’t say we didn’t warn you.
