As winter fades away, the smell of spring fills the air and we turn our attention to more outdoorsy pursuits.
Australian spring starts in September and ends in late November, the complete opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Flower festivals and racing carnivals pack the calendar, and if you're keen on travelling during these months, we've got 10 destinations to focus your attention on.
Why you should go in spring:
- An annual tradition to celebrate the plant life and unique culture of Western Australia, the Kings Park Festival features displays of spring wildflowers and free events for everyone. September 2021
- Get your outfits ready for the Toodyay Picnic Race Day held in the picturesque Avon Valley. The day features exciting races, Fashions on the Field, live music and kids activities. 26 September 2021
- The Perth Royal Show is an annual agricultural exhibit showcasing agricultural competitions and animals along with a fun family atmosphere of a fairground, rides and show bags. 25 September - 2 October 2021
- Due to Covid restrictions in Melbourne, Perth will host the AFL grand final in 2021 at Optus Stadium. 25 September 2021
What the weather is like: Spring brings a pleasant average of 23°C with little rainfall.
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Why you should go in spring:
- Explore over 65 works of art set on the beach at the SWELL Sculpture Festival. The outdoor event features guided twilight walks, artist talks, masterclasses and kids workshops. 10-19 September 2021
- Get ready to party in the fast lane when the high-octane Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 arrives in town. It's a 3-day weekend of fun in the sun with a bumper line-up of world-class motorsport and entertainment. 3-5 December 2021
- Spring is a great time to visit when the weather is warm but saves you the hassle of clashing with keen school leavers in the early summer.
What the weather is like: Enjoy sunny days and mild tropical evenings with average temperatures ranging from 17-25°C.
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Launceston
Why you should go in spring:
- Head to the coast to witness the migration of both humpback whales (October to November) and southern right whales (September to October). You can book a tour or take your chances at popular whale watching spots Frederick Henry Bay and Great Oyster Bay. September through November
- Get ready for the quirky and unique Junction Arts Festival, an intimate affair featuring extraordinary experiences in unusual spaces. The festival hub showcases Tasmania's finest musicians and bands as well as children's shows and award-winning cabaret. 1-5 September 2021
- Launceston is 2 hours by car from the Overland Track which is a pleasant trail to hike especially in the later months of spring. November
What the weather is like: Expect longer, warmer days coupled with fresh cool nights.
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Why you should go in spring:
- Every September, Brisbanites and visitors get ready for an explosion of theatre, dance, music, circus and opera with Brisfest. It all culminates in a big bang at Sunsuper Riverfire on the final night. 3-25 September 2021
- Spring heralds the start of jacaranda tree season, and it's one of the most beautiful times to be in the city when touches of purple bloom everywhere you look. Check out New Farm Park or the Botanic Garden for some extra special views. Early October to early November.
What the weather is like: Average temperatures sit between 15°C and 25°C with warm, sunny days.
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Alice Springs
Why you should go in spring:
- Desert Mob at the Araluen Arts Centre has been representing the most comprehensive survey of contemporary Aboriginal art for 30 years. The exhibition is supported by a marketplace in a unique opportunity to view and buy Aboriginal art, meet the artists and listen to their stories. The 30th-anniversary exhibition celebrates artists from Arrernte country, the Western Desert, Martu country, Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, Ngaanyatjarra Lands, Spinifex country, the Barkly and Utopia. 10 September - 24 October 2021
- Spring is a transition time in the Top End as the weather moves from one extreme to another. Warm (but not uncomfortable) weather makes camping or seeing the The Field of Light ideal and is the best time to visit Uluru. September
What the weather is like: The weather really begins to heat up with average temperatures ranging from 14-31°C and you can expect spectacular thunderstorms and cooler evenings.
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Whitsundays
Why you should go in spring:
- For the active adventurers among us, you can't go past the Anaconda Whitsunday Trail Fest. The WTF28 experience takes you on a 28.7km adventure through the Conway National Park rainforest. If you're up for the ultimate test, try the 57.4km WTF58. 11-12 September 2021
- Experience the town come to life at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. It's a party like no other in this tropical paradise complete with jaw-dropping sea views, live entertainment and an electric atmosphere. The 2021 line-up features The Rogue Traders, Spiderbait and many more. 5-7 November 2021
What the weather is like: There are comfortably warm temperatures in September (up to 26°C), climbing to its peak of 31°C in November. October is the start of the stinger season, meaning you'll have to wear a protective stinger suit for water activities in the second half of the season.
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Why you should go in spring:
- What better way to celebrate spring than a flower festival? Floriade is Australia's biggest celebration of spring. It mixes all things floral with traditional entertainment, sculptures and other artistic features. 11 September - 10 October 2021
- Spring is a pleasant season to visit Canberra's many museums and landmarks with little rain and clear skies. It's an ideal time for hot air ballooning which is a great way to see the nation's capital from a brand new perspective.
What the weather is like: Fresh mornings and cool nights with average temperatures of 6-19°C.
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Why you should go in spring:
- Opening with the Memsie Stakes and culminating with "the race that stops a nation", the Spring Racing Carnival is the highlight of many Aussie calendars. 28 August - 6 November 2021
- The Melbourne Fringe Festival is a celebration of the arts. With over 400 events, the festival has a unique aim to create a space for artistic self-expression linked to the life of Melbourne. 30 September - 17 October 2021
What the weather is like: Average temperatures range from 9-20°C, but this is one of the most variable seasons of the year when Melbourne earns its reputation for receiving 4 seasons in 1 day.
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Why you should go in spring:
- Experience whale watching at Australia's most easterly point. You can try your luck on land at spots like Cape Byron Lighthouse, paddle out with a kayak or take a tour to see the whales. While you're out there, you might also come across the local dolphin population or even spot turtles.
- Farmers, producers and chefs from Northern New South Wales come together to share their passion for good grub at the annual Bangalow's Sample Food Festival. Top restaurants in the region also compete for the "Gold Fork" awards and host a special luncheon. Postponed TBA
What the weather is like: The season has pleasantly warm weather, the lowest average rainfall and water temperatures ranging from 21°C to 25°C.
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Why you should go in spring:
- October marks the month of indulgence with the Good Food Month and Night Noodle Markets setting up shop. Foodies can enjoy a sizzling line-up of Australian and international talent sharing their kitchen know-how. Be sure to indulge in the hawker-style Night Noodle Markets when the sun goes down. Throughout October 2021
What the weather is like: Expect comfortable temperatures and low rainfall. Average daily temperatures range from 11-23°C.
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