Kingston

Within and around the idyllic town of Kingston in Tasmania, there are a range of nationally and globally recognised annual events for visitors and locals alike to partake in and enjoy. From cultural showcases to sporting competitions, there is something for everyone on this list. The following is a detailed overview of the many annual events in and around Kingston, Tasmania.

1. The Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival

The Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival is one of the largest winter events in Australia, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The festival is held annually near the end of July and is celebrated on the mystical night of the winter solstice. The event is held at the Willie Smith's Apple Shed in Grove, where guests can enjoy live music, hot mulled cider, fire shows and a feast of fresh homemade Devonshire teas, hot dogs, chicken parma and hot apple cider straight from the orchards.

2. Kingston Beach Arts and Crafts Market

Held on the first Saturday of every month, the Kingston Beach Arts and Crafts Market is a local institution that showcases handmade art and crafts from around the region. The market takes place in Kingston Beach, adjacent to the picturesque playground and BBQ areas, and features stalls selling everything from pottery and paintings to homemade jams and jewelry.

3. Tasmanian Craft Fair

The Tasmanian Craft Fair is a premier annual event held at the Deloraine Showgrounds in November. The fair encompasses all forms of crafts, from jewellery and ceramics to textiles and woodwork. Visitors can watch demonstrations, talk to artists, and even purchase their favourite pieces to take home. The festival is accompanied by live music, food stalls, and children's activities.

4. Taste of Tasmania Festival

The Taste of Tasmania Festival is a much-loved event that takes place in Hobart during December and January. Visitors can try Tasmania's finest food, wine and beer from around the region, gather around live music and performances or stop by any kids activities. The event is held at Wharf area which is a picturesque and historic setting that features incredible views of Hobart's harbor and the surrounding natural beauty.

5. The Australian Wooden Boat Festival

Held biennially in February, the Australian Wooden Boat Festival is one of the largest timber boat events in the Southern Hemisphere. With over 500 boats on display, visitors can watch the sail boat races, explore the vessels, cast their votes in the People's Choice Wooden Boat Awards or even take a boat-making workshop. The event also features carnival rides, food stalls and buskers, making it a fun and rewarding event for visitors of all ages.

6. Cygnet Folk Festival

The Cygnet Folk Festival is held annually in January as a three-day celebration of folk music, dancing, and performance. Visitors can listen to a variety of Tasmanian and international performers playing traditional and modern folk music, grab a drink at the Kids Area or participate in a singing group or a jamming session with local musicians. Additionally, visitors can browse the many stalls selling arts, crafts, and food.

7. Royal Hobart Show

The Royal Hobart Show is a traditional agricultural show held annually at the Royal Tasmanian Showgrounds in October. The show features rural livestock competitions, horse shows, show dogs, camel rides, a range of carnival games, and a variety of different foods that are regionally popular. It's a great opportunity to experience Tasmanian's rural and agricultural lifestyle, and an incredibly family-friendly event.

8. The Australian Antarctic Festival

Held at different intervals, the Australian Antarctic Festival in Hobart is celebrated whenever a new expedition to Antarctica is set to embark on their journey. This festival offers visitors a chance to learn about the research being conducted on this icy continent and the science behind it, participate in various crafts, taste local food and beverages, explore a life-size Icebreaker vessel and Polar research stations or have an up-close view of huskies.

9. The Taste of the Huon

The Taste of the Huon is a weekend-long celebration of the fruits, wine and cider of the Huon Valley. Hosted at the Ranelagh Showgrounds in March, visitors can enjoy local food and drink, watch demonstrations, livestock competitions, rides and children's activities, including a traditional fairground. It's a great opportunity to learn about, taste and appreciate Tasmania's rural bounty.

These are only a few of the many annual events that take place in and around the town of Kingston in Tasmania. Each event offers its unique opportunity to connect with the local community, appreciate different cultures, and have a fun time in an idyllic setting. Whether you're on holiday, visiting loved ones or a resident of Tasmania, anyone can participate in these unique and enjoyable experiences.