By Lauren Ferrone
Last updated on: June 19, 2019 at 12:59 pm
South Australia might come to life in summer, but there’s still so much to do in SA in the cooler months. Here's what we're getting up to over the next fortnight.
1. Coober Pedy Opal Festival
When: 21–23 June
Where: Coober Pedy
With a sizzling summer behind us, winter is the ideal time to visit Australia’s opal capital, Coober Pedy. This June, the Coober Pedy Opal Festival gives tourists and locals the chance to explore underground hideouts, traverse the outback and feast their eyes on a stunning array of opals. Browse local crafts at market stalls and watch the fireworks display light up the outback sky on opening night.
2. Dirty Days MTB Series
When: 23 June
Where: Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, Salisbury East
On yer bike! Take to the trails in Bike SA’s Dirty Days MTB Series. Explore Cobbler Creek Recreation Park’s purpose-built trails, which are perfect for beginner and intermediate mountain bike riders. Show off your skills on the bike jumps and take the little ones for a pedal on the mini track, all under the guidance of professional ride marshals. Can’t make it? There are more Dirty Days ride dates and locations scheduled this year.
3. Winter Wonderland
When: 28 June–22 July
Where: Glenelg
Glenelg’s Winter Wonderland will have you thinking its Christmas time in New York City’s Central Park! Complete with an ice rink and toboggan slide, Moseley Square will turn white for Winter Wonderland – an event that embraces the chill of the cooler season. This year, you can dance (or skate) the night away at the inaugural Twilight Disco Party on opening night. Just remember to rug up!
4. Jurassic Creatures
When: 28 June–28 July
Where: Port Rd, Adelaide
Go back millions of years at Jurassic Creatures – an interactive exhibition that explores a prehistoric world when giant reptiles roamed free. Watch in awe as more than 30 dinosaur displays move and roar, from the T-Rex to raptors. Children can chip away in the designated digging area to unearth replica fossils, channelling their inner palaeontologist.
5. Coonawarra Cellar Dwellers
When: 1–31 July
Where: Coonawarra, Limestone Coast
Throughout the month of July, take your pick from more than 60 events across the beautiful Coonawarra wine region at Coonawarra Cellar Dwellers. Glamp near a 150-year-old shearing shed turned winery, dig into delicious degustation dinners and don’t miss the chance to indulge in scones covered with homemade Cabernet jam. Can’t make it to Coonawarra Cellar Dwellers? You can still head to the Limestone Coast this winter – check out our guide to exploring the south east in the chillier months.