If there’s one weekend that captures the spirit of a Tasmanian summer, it’s Festivale. Every year, Launceston’s leafy City Park turns into a three-day celebration of the best food, drink and music the island has to offer, and it’s one of the busiest weekends of the year for Launceston accommodation. If you’re planning to go to Festivale 2027, here’s everything you need to know, plus tips on where to stay.
What is Festivale?
Festivale is Tasmania’s premier summer event, a three-day festival dedicated to showcasing Tasmanian produce, beverages and live entertainment. Around 30,000 people pass through the gates each year, which gives you a sense of just how much of an institution it has become.
It didn’t start out this way. Festivale began in 1988 as a multicultural street party and has grown over the decades into one of Tasmania’s signature events, and it’s now regarded as one of the best food and wine festivals in the country.
Festivale 2027 Dates, Times and Tickets
The next Festivale runs from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 January 2027. Gates are open 4pm to 11pm on Friday, 11am to 11pm on Saturday, and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.
Tickets go on sale through the official Festivale website from Friday 2 October, and prices range from $28 to $68, with kids under 16 getting in free on Sunday when accompanied by an adult. For full details, check the Festivale event information page.
Where is Festivale Held?
Festivale takes place in Launceston’s City Park on Tamar Street, on the edge of the CBD. It’s a historically significant green space shaded by grand old elm trees. Picture yourself spreading out a picnic rug under those elms with a glass of cool climate pinot in hand, the sound of live music drifting across the lawn. It’s relaxed, it’s spacious, and it’s easy to lose an entire afternoon here.
Food and Wine at Festivale
This is the heart of Festivale. Expect Tasmanian produce at its finest, alongside the state’s celebrated cool climate wines, craft beers and spirits. The festival spans everything from wine, beer, whisky and cider to fresh seafood, cheese and globally inspired dishes, with more than 70 stallholders taking part.
Want to go deeper? Masterclasses run across the weekend where you can sample and learn from the makers themselves. You can also catch a celebrity guest chef and some of Tasmania’s most talented local chefs cooking live.
Festivale Music and Entertainment
Festivale isn’t just about grazing. Friday night kicks off with Fresh Comedy, and across the weekend the stages fill with local artists plus headline acts. In 2026, Boy & Bear headlined, alongside up-and-coming local musicians. It’s a great mix of big names and homegrown talent.
Headliners:
Jet
You Am I
The Cat Empire
Something for Kate
John Butler Trio
Comedy:
Celia Pacquola
Ivan Aristeguieta
Brett Blake
Celebrity Chef:
Adam Liaw
Where to Stay for Festivale in Launceston
Festivale draws a big crowd from out of town, with around 40 per cent of attendees coming from outside the Launceston area, and the organisers warn that accommodation sells out quickly for Festivale weekend. If you’re planning to go, booking your Launceston accommodation should be the first thing you do, ideally before tickets even go on sale.
For a festival weekend, a short-stay property can be a much better fit than a hotel room. You’ll have your own space to relax between sessions, somewhere to stash the Tasmanian cheese and wine you pick up at the festival, and the freedom to come and go on your own schedule.
At Harrison Stays, we offer a considered collection of professionally managed homes across Tasmania, backed by six generations of local property knowledge. Browse our stays to find a comfortable Launceston base for your Festivale weekend.
Getting to Launceston for Festivale
Coming from the mainland? Launceston is roughly a 50-minute flight from Melbourne and around an hour and 20 minutes from Sydney, or you can take the Spirit of Tasmania from Melbourne to Devonport.
Things to Do in Launceston Around Festivale
Festivale is the perfect excuse to explore northern Tasmania. Launceston makes an ideal base, with the Tamar Valley wine region, historic towns and stunning natural spots all within easy reach. For ideas on where to eat, walk and explore, browse our Tasmanian local guides and experiences. Why not add a few extra nights either side and turn it into a proper summer getaway?
Festivale FAQs
When is Festivale 2027?
Festivale 2027 runs from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 January 2027 in Launceston’s City Park.
How much are Festivale tickets?
Tickets range from $28 to $68, and children under 16 get in free on Sunday with an accompanying adult.
Is Festivale family friendly?
Yes. The open parkland setting suits families, and Sunday is especially good value with free entry for under-16s.
When should I book accommodation for Festivale?
As early as possible. Launceston accommodation books out quickly for Festivale weekend, so it’s best to secure your stay well ahead of the event.
Book Your Festivale Stay in Launceston
Festivale is a chance to taste and experience the very best of Tasmania in one beautiful setting, and it’s even better when you’ve got a comfortable place to come home to. Browse our stays and book early to secure your spot before the Festivale rush, or get in touch with our team on 03 6332 6400 or hello@harrisonstays.com.au.
