The milder weather, longer days, and blooming gardens make spring a beautiful time to visit the Huon Valley and Far South Tasmania. There are some fantastic events on now and others that are fast approaching—the perfect excuse for a cheeky getaway to explore the region’s many attractions! We’ve listed some of the best things to do south of Hobart this spring.
The Arts
Creative and artistic talent is abundant in the Huon (visit the local galleries and studios to see for yourself). Over the next 12 months, the Huon and Far South are hosting a range of exciting large-scale art events, known collectively as Project X.
- Hrafn: Conversations with Odin (part of Project X) is an immersive artwork by award-winning British sound artist Chris Watson with The Wired Lab. Journey into the deep, dark wilds of Tasmania’s Far South, follow your guide into the trees at the Hastings Caves State Reserve, and listen to 2,000 ravens coming in to roost. Hrafn is on at dusk every Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 26 October and may then be extended to December pending ecological assessment (buy tickets). There is also a special offer on for Project X: stay a night in the Southern Trove and receive two free tickets to Hrafn: Conversations with Odin on performance nights* (*T&Cs apply).
- Also part of Project X is Jimmy Cauty’s The Aftermath Dislocation Principle—a miniature dystopian creation in a giant shipping container—which is on a 12 month tour of the Huon Valley. Find it on the Corner of Brady and Church Streets in Geeveston 24/7 until November, or with the Children of the Aftermath Saturday 14 September (12.30pm – 4.30pm) and Friday 4 October (5pm – 9pm).
- Discover the heritage craft of wooden boat building and hone your skills with the Tasmanian Wooden Boat Centre’s range of courses.
- Cygnet and surrounds will be alive (or undead) for the Terror Australis Readers and Writers Festival (31 October to 3 November 2019), with panel sessions, parties, workshops and free community events.
Food & Drink
The Huon Valley is known for its top-quality local produce, so it’s no wonder that the region is dotted with charming cafes, divine restaurants, rustic cider houses and award-winning wineries. In addition, there are some special events coming up for those who simply must taste it all.
- Far South Tasmania is hosting three feasts to showcase the local food, art, music, and unique environment. Far South Feasts Long Table Dinners will be held on 14 September at the Port Esperance Sailing Club (sold out), 19 October at the Southport Community Centre (get in quick!), and 23 November back in Dover.
- Locals and visitors are all welcome to cook and eat together at the Geeveston Community Feast, held on the first Thursday of each month at the Geeveston Visitor Centre.
- At Fat Pig Farm Afloat, enjoy a seasonal picnic lunch made with the region’s delicious artisan produce while cruising the Huon River aboard the Yukon.
- Take a culinary journey of the region of Puglia in southern Italy (and learn the secrets and skills) at The Farmhouse Kitchen cooking school. Choose from a range of masterclasses and miniclasses.
- The Sunday Roast at Ranelagh General Store is an absolute classic, on every Sunday from 5pm.
Agricultural Show
One to crow about.
- This year’s Huon Show is on at Ranelagh on Saturday 16 November. Experience the fun and festivities of a typical country show, with a large line up of agricultural equipment and machinery, competitions, and entertainment for the whole family.
Music, Comedy & Entertainment
The perfect excuse to get together with mates.
- Willie Smith’s Apple Shed is always a hive of activity, with regular Friday night live music, first Sunday of the month Sunday sessions, and a range of other cider, food and community-based events.
- Keep an eye out for upcoming ‘FunnieS at Franks‘ comedy nights at Frank’s Cider House, showcasing big names and local talent.
- Check out the upcoming events at Franklin’s Palais Theatre, including monthly classic movie nights, a 1920 prohibition grand ball on 2 November, and more.
- The Huon Valley Theatre and the Natural Voice Singing & Breathing Studio will present Voices and Variety, a concert showcasing students and other talented local performers, on Sunday 29 September at the Huonville Town Hall (2pm – 5pm).
Markets
Visit the weekly and monthly markets to pick up quality goods directly from the growers and makers (please check with individual organisers if you require up-to-date info).
- Willie Smith’s Artisan & Produce Market (every Saturday, 10am – 1pm)
- Margate Markers Market at Brookfield Shed (every Saturday, 10am – 2pm; 1st Saturday of the month is a Mega Market)
- Cygnet Market (1st & 3rd Sunday, 10am – 2pm)
- Woodbridge Market (2nd Saturday, 10am – 2pm)
- Kingston Beach Handmade Market (2nd Sunday, 10am – 3pm)
- Judbury Market (2nd Sunday, 10am – 2pm)
- Dover Community Market (3rd Sunday, 10am – 2pm)
- Sandfly Community Market (last Saturday, 10am – 3pm)
- The Market at Franklin (last Sunday, 10am – 2pm)
Make a trip of it, stay awhile, and explore the many attractions of the Huon Valley and Far South Tasmania. For more info and travel tips, browse things to do, where to stay, eat and drink, the events calendar and our blog.
We love it when you share your adventures with us. Tag @southerntrovetasmania and use #SouthernTroveTasmania and we’ll share some of our favourite photos on Facebook, Instagram and in our Blog.
Related posts:
Explore Large-Scale Art Installations in the Huon
6 Best Places to Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
50 Things to Do with Kids
A Food, Drink & Art Walk in the Huon
Our Guide: National Parks of the Southern Trove
She’ll Be Apples: 8 Things to Do in the Huon Valley
8 Things to Do in Far South Tasmania
Header image:
Geeveston Feast | @coreenung/Instagram
Words:
Isabel Galloway