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Festival Feels and the Arts

Festival Feels & The Arts

The South West is a region with a rich historical past, a thriving arts community and a plethora of events and festivals that attract homegrown, national and international artists, musicians, filmmakers and creatives to West Australian shores. Get those festival feels by discovering artisan markets, unique art exhibitions, state-of-the-art entertainment precincts, Aboriginal cultural tours and arts festivals on your next trip.

ART

Thanks to its inspirational landscapes, community vibe and laidback lifestyle, Australia’s South West is a melting pot for artists and creatives. You’ll find arts precincts, galleries and open studios in most of the South West’s cities and towns, as well as beautiful displays of public art in both city and country settings. We suggest checking out the streets of Bunbury and Katanning, as well as the giant grain silos in Albany and Pingrup, for some iconic street art murals by internationally renowned artists. Want a unique South West artwork to take home? Be sure to check out the many art markets held across the region throughout the year, where you can buy your very own piece of South West life. 

ABORIGINAL CULTURE

Western Australia is home to one of the world’s oldest living cultures, the Aboriginal people, who share more than 50,000 years of history. These nomadic hunter-gatherers followed a six seasons calendar, which is still used by Aborigines today. Each of the seasons – Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba and Kambarang – represents the plant, animal and weather changes we see across the region every year. Discover the six seasons and dreamtime stories, which have been passed down from generation to generation, on an Aboriginal tour or experience

COLONIAL AND ANZAC HISTORY

The establishment of a military outpost in Albany in 1826 is regarded as the first signs of European settlement in the South West. Albany has since played a central role in the Anzac legend, being the last port of call for troops departing Australia for the First World War. You can find local museums, parks and monuments, which provide detailed insight into the history of the South West, throughout the region. 

Art & Culture

Ancient Aboriginal culture, a rich historical past and a thriving arts community means you won’t have to travel far to take in the very best of South West art and culture.

Kodja Place and Cultural Centre

Connect with the Great Southern land at The Kodja Place interpretive centre in Kojonup

Bunbury Regional Art Gallery

BRAG is a must visit for all culture lovers.

Ngalang Wongi Aboriginal Cultural Tours

Explore the rich Noongar history of Bunbury with your local guide Troy Bennell.

Koomal Dreaming

Experience the Wadandi and Bibbulman country through the eyes of the traditional owners with these cultural tours.

National Anzac Centre

Immerse yourself in the ANZAC legend and the stories of the soldiers who departed here.

Understory Art & Nature Trail

Discover artworks scattered like treasure in the forests of Northcliffe.

Not to be missed

Don’t miss out on all these great events happening in the region, from adrenaline pumping sporting events to great food and wine, there’s something for everyone.

CinefestOZ Film Festival

29 August 2023 - 03 September 2023
Margaret River
A six day festival for movie lovers celebrating the best in Australian film.

Margaret River Region Open Studios

09 - 24 September 2023
Margaret River
The biggest art event of its kind in Australia, showcasing the vibrant visual arts scene of the region.

Boyup Brook Country Music Festival

16 - 18 February 2024
Boyup Brook
A family-friendly celebration of country music, in a relaxed and natural bushland setting.

Other ideas for your trip

Looking for inspiration? Read up on these art and culture experiences for the holiday of your dreams.

8 Films Shot in the South West for Your Must-Watch List

See the South West on show as the backdrop for this incredible collection of films.

Art Lover’s Road Trip

Australia's South West is a region with a rich historical past and a thriving arts community.

Art, Galleries & Museums

Discover art galleries, boutiques, unique exhibitions and state of the art entertainment precincts.

Newletter

What brings you here

Hamelin Bay

One of the best beaches

in Australia

Pinot Picnic

28 – 30 April 2023

SIP, TASTE & EXPLORE

Plan your Visit

Check out the

South West Edge Road Trip