Discover What’s On: Your Ultimate Events Calendar for Adventures
Our events calendar is bursting with fresh excitement, making it easier than ever to find out what’s on and where across the state. From vibrant community markets and food festivals to live music, art shows, and family‑friendly activities, the calendar brings together the best local happenings in one dynamic hub. Travellers and locals can explore upcoming events by region, date, or interest, ensuring they never miss out on hidden gems or major attractions. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or looking for something spontaneous, the events calendar is your go‑to guide for discovering what’s happening right now across Australia.
05oct8:00 am4:00 pmUnshackled Exhibition
Unshackled Reveals Australia’s Hidden Convict History Through a Powerful Digital Experience Australia’s past comes vividly to life in Unshackled, an award‑winning
Unshackled Reveals Australia’s Hidden Convict History Through a Powerful Digital Experience
Australia’s past comes vividly to life in Unshackled, an award‑winning immersive digital exhibition that uncovers the untold stories of the nation’s convict era. This groundbreaking experience is captivating audiences across the country, offering a fresh and deeply human perspective on a chapter of history often reduced to stereotypes and simple narratives.
Unshackled blends cutting‑edge technology with meticulous historical research to create an exhibition that feels both modern and emotionally resonant. Visitors step into a digital world where real convict voices, archival records, animated storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes reveal the struggles, resilience and remarkable journeys of the men, women and children who shaped early Australia. The exhibition highlights personal stories of survival, injustice, hope and transformation—stories long buried beneath official records and colonial mythmaking.
What sets Unshackled apart is its ability to connect audiences with history on a personal level. Interactive displays allow visitors to explore convict lives in detail, tracing their origins, crimes, punishments and eventual paths to freedom. The exhibition also shines a light on lesser‑known narratives, including the experiences of First Nations people impacted by the penal system and the complex social dynamics of early colonial settlements.
Cultural organisations and educators have praised Unshackled for its innovative approach, noting how the exhibition makes history accessible to all ages while encouraging deeper reflection on Australia’s identity. Tourism operators say the exhibition is drawing strong visitation, with many attendees travelling specifically to experience its immersive storytelling.
With its blend of technology, truth‑telling and emotional depth, Unshackled stands out as one of Australia’s most compelling cultural experiences. It invites audiences to look beyond the surface of the nation’s convict past and discover the real people whose stories continue to shape the country today.
05oct9:30 am4:30 pmTulip Time Flower Festival 2026
Tulip Time Flower Festival 2026 Set to Bloom Brightly in the Southern Highlands The Southern Highlands is preparing for a spectacular
Tulip Time Flower Festival 2026 Set to Bloom Brightly in the Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is preparing for a spectacular burst of colour as the Tulip Time Flower Festival 2026 returns to Bowral, promising one of the most vibrant and uplifting spring celebrations in New South Wales. Loved by locals and adored by visitors, Tulip Time transforms the region into a floral wonderland, drawing thousands eager to witness its breathtaking displays and festive atmosphere.
Centennial Park will once again serve as the heart of the festival, with more than 80,000 tulips planted in stunning, meticulously designed garden beds. Visitors can wander through sweeping carpets of colour—brilliant reds, soft pastels, bold purples and sunshine yellows—each arranged to create a dazzling visual experience. Gardeners and horticulture enthusiasts say the 2026 designs will be among the most creative yet, showcasing new varieties and imaginative patterns that celebrate the beauty of spring.
Beyond the blooms, Tulip Time offers a lively program of entertainment and community activities. Expect live music, market stalls, garden tours, family-friendly workshops, food trucks and local artisan displays that bring Bowral’s creative spirit to life. The festival’s popular “Tulips After Dark” sessions are set to return, offering illuminated garden displays, twilight entertainment and a magical evening atmosphere.
Local businesses and tourism operators say Tulip Time continues to be one of the Southern Highlands’ biggest annual drawcards, boosting visitation across Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale. Many visitors extend their stay to explore boutique shops, cool‑climate wineries, heritage villages and scenic lookouts across the region.
With its vibrant gardens, festive energy and strong community spirit, the Tulip Time Flower Festival 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable spring events in NSW. Whether you’re a flower lover, a photographer or simply seeking a joyful day out, this year’s festival promises colour, beauty and inspiration at every turn.
