Major Events in Australia
Started in 1993, the annual Food & Wine Festival of Melbourne is one of the hallmark events of Victoria. Celebrated in the month of March, the event intends to promote Melbourne's food and wine culture. The annual fest is designed in a way to project Melbourne as the food and wine capital of Australia. Attended by hundreds of tourists, the festival exhibits remarkable talent and lifestyle of Melbourne. Notable events include – Cellar Dog at Southgate and Langham Melbourne MasterClass. Widespread acceptance of the event has led to several awards and accolades, including RACV Victorian Tourism Awards and Best Festival Program.
One of the largest international comedy festivals in the world, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival attracts thousands of tourists. The comedy festival has been tremendously popular since its inception in the year 1987. While initially the Melbourne Town Hall used to host all the events, the trend shifted in 1990s. There are now plenty of venues spread across the entire city. Besides standup performances and cabaret acts, the festival is known for two major competitions, Raw Comedy and Class Clowns. There is also a National Roadshow showcasing all important events of the festival.
Managed by the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales, the Royal Easter Show was launched in the year 1823. A major historic event, the Easter Show attracts people from all walks of life. Spread across two weeks, the show features annual fair, amusement park, and an agricultural show that showcases produce as well as the livestock. The Royal Easter Show also plays host to several competitions covering diverse areas of expertise, including photography, cookery, and arts and crafts. There are also number of restaurants, food outlets, and exhibits featuring horticulture and associated activities.
As the name suggests, the Australian national day is celebrated with tremendous vigor across the country. With literally hundreds of events being organized across the country, millions of people are seen participating and enjoying their day. Thousands of tourists as well as locals gather near Sydney Harbor for the grand fireworks display. There are also several community breakfasts, citizenship ceremonies, concerts, beach parties, and parades organized throughout the country. As the day commemorates everything that makes Australians proud, tourists find it very convenient to make new friends and explore the country.
Celebrated against the iconic skyline of Sydney, the Handa Opera festival is a grand event. A comprehensive entertainment festival, the opera is backed by some of the finest food joints, bars, and restaurants. Organized at a spectacularly brilliant spot, this unforgettable event offers a unique panoramic view of the city lights. Backdrop of the stage includes Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and several other skyscrapers. Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra, housed under the stage, is also a notable feature of the event. The award winning sound designing mechanism attracts tourists in large numbers.