Blooming Delights: Unmissable flower festivals to visit this springtime

From the iconic tulips of Tesselaar Tulip Festival to native wonders at Kings Park Festival, nothing captures the fragrant essence of springtime like an Australian flower show. Whether you’re a nature lover, a grower or simply escaping into a world of colour and fragrance, these shows spring plenty of joy in some of Australia’s top destinations. So mark your calendar and get ready to enjoy the splendour of Australian Flower Shows 2023.

Canberra Floriade Festival 2023 – ACT

16 September – 15 October

A night of fun at the Canberra Floriade Festival this Spring! Image from Brenton Colley.

Bursting with colours in the heart of Canberra, Floriade is Australia’s premier floral festival and a celebration of spring. In 2023 the theme is Floral Wonderland, and the event promises to transform the city’s green spaces into a vibrant canvas of colour with over a million blooms. Enjoy the magic of Floriade’s NightFest ,The Great Big Bulb Dig, Dogs Day Out as well as markets, garden workshops and food and wine events amongst the flowerbeds of the Canberra Flower Festival 2023. 

Where to stay

Enjoy the Floriade festival in Canberra by staying in the heart of springtime wonder at Quality Hotel Dickson, with Parliament House, Questacon, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Australian War Memorial all within reach. 

Tesselaar Tulip Festival (Victoria)

16 September – 15 October

Stunning Tulips at the Tesselaar Tulip Farm. Image from Visit Victoria.

Nestled in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges of Victoria, the Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a treat for tulip enthusiasts. Held annually during September and October, this festival boasts a stunning array of tulips and a full calendar of family activities and events. Ride Tesselaars Tulip Farm Tractor Train, visit the Historic Cheese Market and sample Dutch cuisine. The festival also hosts offers art food stalls and Australia’s largest wooden clog!

Where to stay

Econo Lodge Lilydale is a colonial style property ideally situated at the gateway to Yarra Valley, providing the ideal base to explore the tulip wonders of the festival.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (Qld)

1-30 September 2023

Couples looking at flowers in Queens Park
Admire the gorgeous flowers on display. Image from Tourism and Events Queensland

Known as the Garden City of Australia, Toowoomba hosts the renowned Carnival of Flowers every September. Showcasing a stunning display of spring blooms in public and private gardens, the spectacular Toowoomba flower show 2023 also hosts the famous Grand Central Floral Parade, featuring floral floats, music, and street performers – a highlight of the carnival. Time your visit to enjoy the Festival of Food and Wine and #trEATs while you’re there.

Where to stay

Set yourself up next to manicured gardens at the Comfort Inn Glenfield. The Comfort Inn Grammar View also boasts a great location, situated in quiet, tree-lined Margaret Street.

Riverland Rose and Garden Festival (SA)

20 – 29 October 2023

Come and visit the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival. Image from the South Australia Tourism Commission.

Nestled along the banks of the Murray River, the Riverland Rose and Garden Festival in South Australia is a hidden gem for flower enthusiasts. Held every October, the festival showcases an array of blooming roses and other ornamental plants, from elegant rose gardens to native Australian flora. The festival also features guided garden tours, art exhibitions, and local produce markets.

Where to stay

Make the most of this Riverland Renmark Rose Festival 2023 with local hospitality at Comfort Inn & Suites Riverland. Where you’ll find large rooms, golf course views, a seasonal outdoor pool, and grassed tennis courts ready for entertainment.

Kings Park Festival 2023 (Perth)

1 – 30 September 

Perfect specimens display in Aspects of Kings Park Gallery Shop. Image from BGPA.

One of the largest inner-city gardens in the world, Kings Park becomes a floral wonderland during the Kings Park Flower Festival held in September. Stroll amongst the unique flora of the region, including the famous Western Australian wildflowers, as you explore the park’s extensive bushland. The festival hosts guided walks, live music performances, outdoor exhibitions, and family-friendly activities and stunning views of the city.

Where to stay

You’ll find plenty of accommodation options in Perth, perfect for enjoying all the city’s charms – including its parks and wildflowers. 

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