Winter, the perfect time to snuggle up and do nothing right? WRONG! Perth City comes to life each winter with amazing shows, free activities and plenty of food & wine events and 2019 is no exception. To make it easy we’ve made a list of our favourite things to do this winter in Perth CBD, which you can even read without leaving the couch. From S’mores Cocktails, to comedy, there’s something for everyone.

Explore for longer when you stay in Perth City – plus save up to 30% off and enjoy FREE breakfast when you book with our Winter Escape Sale.

Perth Mess Hall

Image credit: Perth Mess Hall

Perth’s very own food truck home is opening at the Old Swan Barracks in Northbridge on May 10^th!  Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday you can expect to see a rotating mix of Perth’s favourite food trucks with tastes from around the world. Enjoy your food with a beverage from Gage Road and Matsos in the outdoor or indoor dining space.

Dates: 10 May – onwards. Learn more.

Girls School Cinema

Image Credit: Rooftop Cinemas

From the talented folks who bring us Fringe Festival and Rooftop Movies, comes the winter edition Girls School Cinema. Tucked away in a historic old girls school, is your new favourite destination – screening blockbusters, classics and art house films. Snuggle into a beanbag with a free blanket, some wine and popcorn for the ultimate cosy winter night.

Dates: 17 May – 12 October. Learn more. 

Winter Fest 2019

Image credit: Brookfield Place

Who says winter is a season for hibernating? Perth City comes alive each winter with plenty of activations and family friendly activities including Winter Fest Theatre (free), Winter Lights at Brookfield Place and a replica light display of Aurora Borealis!

Dates: 22 June – 21 July. Learn more.

Skating at Elizabeth Quay

Image credit: Skating At

Who would have thought Elizabeth Quay would have its very own Ice Skating Rink? This winter, expect to see a pop up ice skating rink plus plenty of music, ice slides and skating aids for the kids. Elizabeth Quay even has an arts and crafts pop up market at the same time, which means it’s the perfect Perth City outing with the family.

Dates: 28 June – 21 July. Learn more.

State of Origin

Image credit: State of Origin

For the first time ever, Rugby League’s biggest event is heading to Perth, Optus Stadium. Watch as the teams go head to head in the biggest game of the year.

Dates: 23 June. Learn more.

S’mores Cocktail & Hot Choc

Image credit: City of Perth

Nothing says winter like a delicious S’more, but this winter Ivy & Jack have changed the rules of the game. S’mores Cocktail vs Hot Choc, which would you choose? *Stay tuned for the special 2019 version.

Date: 24 June – 21 July

Childish Gambino

Image Credit: Donald Glover

Well known for his confrontational single This is America, singer Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover is making his way to RAC Arena. Childish Gambino has earned multiple Grammy’s in his time including Song of the Year and Best Rap Performance, so you can expect a big show coming your way.

Dates: 14 July. 

Precarious

Circus Oz brings their new circus tricks to His Majesty’s Theatre this winter! Watch as Precarious is unleashed, full of aerials, comedy and acrobatics. Expect jaw dropping entertainment, just a couple of minutes walk from Holiday Inn Perth City Centre.

Dates: 25 – 28 July.

Bangarra: 30 Years of Sixty Five Thousand

Image credit: Bangarra Dance Theatre

Bangarra Dance Theatre are celebrating their 30^th anniversary season with three contemporary works depicting the artistry and community connections that have concreted Bangarra in the Australian Dance scene.  The three works are Unaipon, Stamping Ground and to make fire. You won’t want to miss this performance at state Theatre Centre of WA. 

Dates: 31 July – August 3.

Bledisloe Cup

Image credit: Bledisloe Cup

Catch the Wallabies take on the All Blacks for the Bledisloe Cup at Optus Stadium this winter. This will be the only time the Wallabies and All Blacks verse each other in Australia for all of 2019 – don’t miss your opportunity to watch them live.

Dates: 10 August. Learn more.

Perth Craft Beer Festival

WA’s largest beer festival returns! With over 350 beers and ciders waiting to be sampled, you know it’s bound to be a great event. Aside from the drinks, Perth Craft Beer Festival is bringing live music, a silent disco and even a barber to the Ice Cream Factory (a pop up bar in Northbridge) for a winter day to remember.

Dates: 16 – 18 August. Learn more.

The Man. The Music. The Show. –  Hugh Jackman

You’re not a true Hugh Jackman fan until you’ve seen this show. Watch as Jackman performs his hit songs from Broadway and movies, including The Greatest Showman.

Dates: 21, 23 and 24 August. Learn more.

Stay longer

Exploring Perth City in the winter just got easier; forget wandering around in the rain looking for your car, stay longer and enjoy more when you book a room in the centre of the city at Holiday Inn Perth. Receive up to 30% off, free breakfast and free wifi when you book with our Winter Sale! Starts 16 May!