Perth has plenty to offer in the summertime. The sun is high, the beaches beckon, and there are plenty of events to keep you entertained. While the sun may be a little fierce for those not used to the temperatures out west, Perth is fast becoming a hub for the arts, shopping, and culinary delights, as well as the unique natural scenery that makes it a must-see Aussie travel destination.
So what are some things you can do to keep busy in Perth this summer? Luckily, there’s no lack of activities.
Christmas and NYE
1. Santa Spotting
You can give the kids a thrill and introduce them to Santa at loads of different locations in Perth this summer. Forrest Place in the city will be kitted out with decorations as well as a nativity scene and a Roving Santa handing out Christmas goodies from mid-November right up until Christmas Eve.
2. Hammond Park Christmas Party
This free family event will feature live music and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. Pets are welcome too!
Where: Botany Reserve, Cnr of Macquarie Blvd and Botany Parade, Hammond Park
When: 9th December 2018, from 5pm-8pm
3. NYE at the Raffles
Bring in the New Year at Raffles Hotel for the ultimate riverside party featuring a fireworks display at midnight, entertainment, pop-up food stalls, and some of Perth’s hottest DJ’s.
Where: Raffles Hotel Perth, 70-72 Canning Beach Road, Applecross
When: 31st December-1st January 2019
4. Christmas Carols in Claremont
This special event is jam-packed full of Christmas fun for the family. A visit from Santa, carols by the Perth Symphony Orchestra, food, and entertainment including a merry-go-round, camel rides, and a rainbow tractor train will be on show.
Where: Claremont Park, 308 Stirling Highway, Claremont
When: 8th December-14th December 2018
5. 140 Local Christmas Markets
The 140 Perth laneways will be alive with the festive spirit with a locally-crafted Christmas market featuring creative stalls, free eggnog, and a gold coin donation gift-wrapping service.
Where: Various locations, 140 William Street, Perth
When: 5th December-19th December 2018
6. Perth Maker’s Market – Applecross
A handmade-only market showcasing arts & crafts, perfect for any last-minute gifts for Christmas.
Where: Heathcote Cultural Precinct, 58 Duncraig Road, Applecross
When: 16th December 2018
7. Christmas Day at Crowne Plaza
Join Crowne Plaza on Christmas Day for lunch or dinner where they will be providing a scrumptious buffet with seafood, hot mains, garden vegetables, desserts, and more.
Where: Crowne Plaza Perth, 54 Terrace Road, East Perth
When: 25th December 2018
8. Christmas Day at Fraser’s Kings Park
Celebrate Christmas Day in the beautiful surrounds of Kings Park. Fraser’s has availability in their venues for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Where: Fraser’s Kings Park, Kings Park, Perth
When: 25th December 2018
9. NYE 2018 at Fraser’s
Join Fraser’s Kings Park for New Year’s Eve with a delicious menu, drinks, and live entertainment.
Where: Fraser’s Restaurant, 60 Fraser Avenue, Kings Park
When: 31st December 2018
10. Christmas Lights Cruises
Cruise the spectacular canals of Mandurah which lights up over Christmas with waterfront homes putting on jaw-dropping Christmas light displays.
Where: Mandurah Cruises, Mandurah
When: 1st December 2018-6th January 2019
11. Santa’s Enchanted Wardrobe
Immerse yourself in this interactive Christmas adventure full of amazing holographic special effects and characters.
Where: Tom Wilding Pavilion 1, Claremont Showgrounds, Graylands Road, Claremont
When: 1st-24th December 2018
12. CHRISTMAS AT THE AQUARIUM
The Aquarium of Western Australia at Hillary’s Boat Harbour has loads of underwater delights that are sure to captivate your senses, including a showcase of the marine life unique to Perth’s coastlines. From the 1st until the 21st of December things will be getting festive, with Scuba Santa diving with the sharks, stingrays, and turtles.
13. CHRISTMAS PROJECTIONS ON THE GENERAL POST OFFICE
After sunset, enjoy stunning animations and light displays on the GPO. The intricate features of the heritage listed building will be illuminated with Queenie the Quokka in Christmas scenes from around the world.
Eat and drink
14. PERTH ZOO
This world-class zoo is home to gorgeous gardens and over 1,200 animals from all around the world. Get to know Australian fauna as well as elephants, tigers, bears, orangutans, lions, and giraffes!
15. UNDERGROUND TOURS AT FREMANTLE PRISON
Built in the 1850s, this jail is Western Australia’s only World Heritage listed building, and is an interesting tour during the day thanks to the colourful tales of daring escapes. But for something really spooky, head 20 metres beneath the prison to explore the tunnels either by foot or boat.
16. LITTLE CREATURES BREWERY
This Fremantle brewery has a scrumptious menu of pub favourites to enjoy with a pint of craft beer or three. You can head to the Brewhouse Bar or the Great Hall to taste a fine variety of ales, or pick up some beers to take back home. You can also take a brewery tour at 1, 2, and 3pm daily.
17. SIMMO’S ICE CREAM
Voted as one of the Top 15 Ice Creameries in the World by USA Today, Simmo’s is a WA institution. You can beat the heat with a delicious ice cream, challenge the family to mini golf, and even meet Edward, the resident ice cream loving emu.
18. BAR ON BEAUFORT
Check out five of the best from Mt. Lawley’s blossoming small bar scene. Running from 5 to 8 pm every Thursday until the 17th of December, this tour gives you a chance to sample the top menu items and drinks, as well as chat to chefs, bartenders, and other food fanatics.
19. EAT THE STREET’S BRUNCH ON BEAUFORT
There are so many options for snacks on the burgeoning strip of Perth eateries that it can feel pretty overwhelming at times. But if you visit between Thursday 22nd October and Thursday 17th December, you can take a tour and sample the offerings of 10 businesses. You get to meet the people behind the establishment, try amazing food, and pick up a coffee and alcoholic drink along the way. Be sure to arrive with a good appetite!
Summer festivals in Perth
20. PERTH INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
From February 8 until March 3, venues all across Perth will be hosting performances by world-class contemporary artists. This year there’ll be jazz performed by the WA Symphony Orchestra with icon Wynton Marsalis, an anarchic take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, a dance by Claire Cunningham, and more.
21. Cine Latino Film Festival
Celebrate Latin American cinema with critically-acclaimed feature films from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Paraguay.
Where: Palace Cinemas, 164 James St, Northbridge
When: 6th-16th of December, 2018
22. SummerSalt
Home-grown and international bands from the lineup for this year’s SummerSalt music festival. Acts include The Waifs, Pete Murray, and more.
Where: 1 Bedford Avenue, Rottnest Island
When: 13th January 2019 from 11am-11pm
23. Fringe World Festival 2019
Appreciate the ever-evolving creative arts culture in Western Australia with 150 shows on offer including comedy acts, musicians, children’s events, and cabaret performances.
Where: Perth City, Perth
When: 18th January-17th February 2019 from 9am-12am
24. Araluen’s Avocado Festival
All avo smash lovers, rejoice! The festival will celebrate all things avocado including fresh produce, skin & beauty care, and beers & cocktails.
Where: Araluen Botanic Park, 362 Croyden Road, Roleystone
When: 24th and 25th November 2018
25. Brazilian Summer Fest
A 12-hour mini-festival of some of the biggest, boldest, and best Brazilian acts.
Where: Floreat Beach, Floreat Surf Life Saving Club, City Beach
When: 27th and 28th January 2019 from 1pm-1am
26. Taco Me Crazy
Perth’s ultimate taco fest! Taco trucks and street food vendors come together to battle for the title of ‘taco master’.
Where: Badlands Bar, 3 Aberdeen Street, Perth
When: 9th December 2018 from 2pm-7pm
27. Perth BeerFest
A journey of beer, food, and entertainment featuring hot act Sneaky Sound System. Masterclasses, tasting, and brewing demonstrations of over 300craft beers, ciders, cocktails, and wines.
Where: Elizabeth Quay, The Esplanade, Perth
When: 18th-20th January 2019
28. The King Neptune Christmas Festival
Gather in Two Rocks for market stalls, live music, food & wine, classic cars, as well as fun activities for the kids including a jumping castle, face painting, and a rock climbing wall.
Where: Two Rocks, Lisford Ave, Two Rocks
When: 9th December 2018 from 3pm-7pm
29. ManiFEST
Journey into your highest spiritual self with masterclasses on conscious creating & dreaming.
Where: ManiFest, Oldham Road, Mornington
When: 30th November-2nd December 2018
Markets and fetes in Perth
30. TGIF HAWKERS MARKET
Every Friday from the 4 January 2019 you can head to this food market for over 30 stalls showcasing international cuisine. Located at the John McMillan Park (next to Victoria Park Library), this is a family-friendly event. Bring a picnic rug or some chairs and enjoy hawker snacks and tunes!
31. TWILIGHT HAWKERS MARKET
There are a lot of night markets on offer in Perth this summer, but the Twilight Hawkers Market is the original and the best place to go for your street food. Held in the city every Friday in the lead up to Christmas, the amazing international street cuisine is surrounded by fun and festive Christmas lights and decorations.
32. CURRAMBINE XMAS MARKET
Held on the 4th of December at the Currambine Community Centre, this will be a great place to stock up on Christmas treats, homemade wooden toys, and kitchen items made by the Men’s Shed – and lots of yummy coffee and cake! There’s even a clairvoyant in attendance – maybe she can help you pick what to buy for that relative that has everything!
33. BAZAAR FREMANTLE
Head to Freo for one of a kind gifts. From the 4th until the 6th of December there’ll be more than 50 local artisans selling their wares, including jewellery, fashion, ceramics, sculpture, woodwork, textiles, and more.
34. The Provedores Market 3, 4 & 5
Celebrate all things Italian with a selection of food stalls set in a rustic, traditional setting. There will be woodfired pizza, Italian coffee and lemonade, wine, and artisan baked goods – just to name a few.
Where: Pisconeri Fine Foods & Wines, 106 Hobart Street, Mount Hawthorn
When: 1st December 2018 from 9am-5pm
35. Secret Garden
The twilight markets at Rosehill Lodge will feature market stalls, food trucks, and live music in a magical secret garden setting. Pony rides and an inflatable playground will be on offer for the kids.
Where: Rosehill Manor, 122 West Parade, South Guildford
When: 15th December 2018 from 3pm-8pm
36. AHC Food Fete
The Alhidayah Centre End of Term Food Fete brings delicious foods, gifts, and trinkets to raise money for the Centre’s expansion.
Where: Alhidayah Centre, 29 Berriman Drive, Wangara
When: 1st December 2018 from 10am-1pm
37. All Things Recycled Clothing Market
30 of Perth’s best-recycled clothing merchants bring all kinds of women’s, men’s, and children’s clothes as well as shoes & accessories under the one historic roof of Agricultural Hall in Kalamunda.
Where: Kalamunda Agricultural Hall, 48 Canning Road, Kalamunda
When: 23rd February 2019, from 10am-2pm
38. Swan Valley Oasis Resort Markets
Enjoy the family Christmas market day featuring stalls, Supa Golf, Laser Corps, live music, and food in the lush tropical surroundings of the Swan Valley Resort.
Where: Swan Valley Oasis Resort, 10250 West Swan Road, Henley Brook
When: 2nd December 2018, from 10am-2pm
39. Aloha Surf Markets
Get ready for summer with an array of surfy stalls featuring clothing, jewellery, plants, and more.
Where: Aloha Surfhouse, 7 Winton Road, Joondalup
When: 1st December 2018, from 9am-1pm
40. Kinkuna Park Markets
Bring the family to this awesome waterpark and playground and enjoy market stalls, food trucks, live music, and activities for a great day out.
Where: Allara Water Playground, Revolution Avenue, Eglinton
When: 8th December 2018, from 9am-1pm
41. Friday Night Food Trucks and Night Markets
Get ready for a day of family fun at the Adventurescape Playground, and enjoy tasty treats from a range of food trucks.
Where: Adventurescape Playground, Inlet Boulevard, South Yunderap
When: 7th December 2018, from 5pm-9pm
42. Perth Makers Market
Browse a selection of the finest artisanal goods at this pop-up market in the Outdoor Dining area of the QV1.
Where: Outdoor Courtyard, QV1 Building, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth
When: 11th-13th of December, 2018
43. Perth Makers Market – Fremantle
40 market stallholders bring a range of unique handmade items and delicious food at the historic Fremantle Markets.
Where: Fremantle Markets’, Henderson Street Carpark, Crnr. South Terrace and Henderson Street, Fremantle
When: 2nd December 2018-12th February 2019
44. Kalamunda Artisan Market
With over 170 market stalls, Kalamunda’s town centre transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour with fresh produce, arts & crafts, clothing, and so much more.
Where: Kalamunda Town Square, Barber Street, Kalamunda
When: 6th October 2018
45. South Beach Sunset Markets
The popular evening markets will feature food vans selling all types of international cuisines including Thai, Indian, Mexican, Moroccan, Greek, and plenty more! Entertainment, pop-up bars, and kids activities will also be on offer.
Where: South Beach, Fremantle
When: Every Saturday night in summer starting December 1st
46. The Ladybird Market
This market proudly brings together some of Perth’s most talented creatives, artists, and designers. Featuring crafts, clothing, artwork, candles, plants, accessories and more.
Where: Level 1 of Lakeside Joondalup (near H&M, Kookai, and Endota Spa) 420 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup
When: 1st December and 15th December 2018
47. Jolimont Primary Twilight Fete
Jolimont Primary School will host a twilight fete with plenty of Christmas gifts and treats on offer. Highlights include a pet stall, lucky dips, succulents for sale, as well as a gingerbread decorating workshop.
Where: Jolimont Primary School oval, 657 Hay Street, Jolimont
When: 1st December 2018, from 3pm-7pm
Fundraisers
48. GOSAC Day
Give Our Strays a Chance is all about helping stray animals through adoption. Come and rescue a furry friend, enter the raffle, or bring a donation for homeless animals.
Where: Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way, Halls Head
When: 5th January 2019, from 10am-3pm
Exhibitions
49. SCITECH DISCOVERY CENTRE
Scitech is great all year round, and on those scorching hot days, you can take refuge in the air conditioning while soaking up an engaging display of scientific fun. There are over 100 hands-on exhibitions, performances, and even the largest planetarium in Australasia. The gift shop is also a great stop for some quirky Christmas shopping.
50. Home Based Business Expo
Get insight and draw inspiration from home-based businesses at this expo hosted by Brookton Community Resource Centre.
Where: Bedford ARMS Hotel, 99 Robinson Road, Brookton
When: 3rd December 2018, from 5:30pm-7:30pm
Sports, outdoors and natural attractions
51. BEACHES
Australia is famed for its oceans, but the WA coastline is another thing altogether. There’s ample space, fine sands, and distinct turquoise waters are on offer at Cottesloe, City Beach, and Scarborough. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
52. LITTLE ISLAND
Head out to this island off Hillary’s Marina and you’ll find a popular underwater snorkel trail. About 1,500 metres in front of Pinnaroo Point you’ll see the island – it’s home to a colony of seals and a pretty decent swell for the experienced surfers.
53. KING’S PARK AND BOTANIC GARDEN
A little piece of the bushland in the heart of the city, King’s Park offers stunning city views and a panorama to the Darling Range, as well as a wild expanse of greenery and local flora. It’s a great place for a barbecue or bushwalk, and is home to over 2,019 native plant species and around 80 types of birds. There’s also a Moonlight outdoor cinema in the summer months!
54. XSCAPE AT THE CITY
Nothing says fun in the sun like a pop up water park! Held at Belmont Racecourse, there are heaps of splashes and excitement on offer here. There’s even the world’s tallest inflatable water slide to slip down – at 23 metres high, it’s not for the faint of heart! For smaller kids who want something less scary, there’s a Dinosaur pool, play pool, and trampoline course.
55. The Red Bull Lighthouse to Leighton from Rottnest Island
The Southern Hemisphere’s #1 kiteboarding race brings all the action as the world’s best kiters take on the 19km open ocean course.
Where: Leighton Beach, Port Beach Road, North Fremantle
When: 8th December- 12th December 2018
56. Summer of Cricket
Watch all the action of the cricket as Australia versus India in the men’s domain test and women’s match.
Where: Perth Stadium, 333 Victoria Park Drive, Burswood
When: 14th December-18th December 2018
57. Hopman Cup
Watch the world’s greatest tennis players battle it out before the Australian Open.
Where: RAC Arena, 700 Wellington Street, Perth
When: 29 December-5 January 2019
Are you moving to Perth?
Read our comprehensive guide to moving to Perth, where you’ll learn everything from the best ways to travel to Perth to how to lay down your roots once you’re settled in.
