Coal River Valley

As the picturesque Coal River Valley in Tasmania, Australia, is a hub of cultural and social activities, it is no surprise that it hosts a plethora of exciting annual events that locals and tourists alike anticipate all year round. Here are some nationally or globally recognized annual events that people can observe in and around Coal River Valley.

The Festival of Roses:

The historic village of Richmond, located in the Coal River Valley, is the proud host of The Festival of Roses, one of Australia’s most popular events, celebrated annually in November. The event is a colorful celebration of the classic and iconic flower- the rose. For four days, the village transforms into a magical rose garden with a variety of spectacular rose displays, street markets, music, food, and wine. Visitors can witness more than 3000 stunning roses representing over 500 varieties from all over the world. The festival also includes events such as a grand parade, live entertainment, and the famous ‘Rose Tea Party’ where visitors can savor delectable rose-inspired cuisine.

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival:

Another event that draws thousands of visitors to the Coal River Valley is The Australian Wooden Boat Festival, held every two years in the heart of Hobart’s iconic waterfront. The event is one of the largest wooden boat festivals in the world, celebrating the craftsmanship and heritage of Australia's maritime community. The festival showcases beautiful wooden boats of all shapes and sizes, from tiny dinghies to huge full-rigged ships. Visitors can enjoy the varied program consisting of boat-building workshops, boat races, exhibitions, live music, and food and wine stalls.

MONA FOMA:

The Museum of Old and New Arts (MONA), located in Hobart, hosts the annual MONA FOMA (MOFO)- an avant-garde extravaganza of art, music, and dance. It is a unique festival, celebrating the weird and wonderful in art and music. The event showcases a lineup of local and international artists, experimenting with different music genres and contemporary art performances. Visitors can explore the museum, which defies conventional art forms and curatorial practices. MOFO is a feast for the senses, attracting art enthusiasts and music lovers from all over the world.

Taste of Tasmania:

The Taste of Tasmania is another popular event celebrated annually in late December, showcasing Tasmania's finest produce and gourmet cuisine. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of locally produced food and wine, including delicious cheese, succulent seafood, and tender beef. The event also celebrates Tasmania's vibrant arts scene, featuring performances from local and international acts. The festival includes a range of fun activities, such as cooking demonstrations, craft markets, and live entertainment.

Dark Mofo:

Dark Mofo is yet another avant-garde festival organized by MONA, celebrating the winter solstice in June. It is a celebration of the darkness over light in the southern hemisphere and the deepest of human instincts. The week-long festival features a range of performances, art installations, and exhibitions, concluding with the spectacular Dark Mofo Night Mass- a procession of art, music, and fire that lights up the city of Hobart. Visitors can experience the unconventional and sometimes provocative performance art and installations that push the boundaries of art and culture.

Conclusion:

The Coal River Valley region in Tasmania, Australia, has plenty of nationally and globally recognized events to offer visitors all-year-round. From the festival of Roses, The Australian Wooden Boat Festival, Taste of Tasmania, and MONA FOMA to the eccentric Dark Mofo, the region hosts a series of unique and exciting events that attract people from all over the world. Visitors can expect a sensory and cultural experience unlike any other while exploring the beautiful Coal River Valley region.