Feeling festive, free, and craving sun-soaked days in the South West? That’s the magic of a Margaret River Region summer calling your name.

December marks the beginning of Birak in the six seasons of Wadandi Boodja, where the sun beams hotter, and the days draw longer – ideal conditions for the region’s endless supply of events.

From Christmas-themed fairs and markets to exciting summer festivals, wine celebrations and live music events, there truly is something for everyone.

Looking for New Year’s Eve events? Find out what is happening on and around the big day here.

Read on for all the events and festivals happening this month.

Ironman WA | 1 December

Busselton

Starting December with a bang, the Busselton Jetty will play host to athletes from around the world with Ironman WA. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Ironman WA is an event that is just as fun for spectators as it is for competitors with so much to do on the foreshore.

IRONMAN is coming to Busselton and Western Australia. Photo: Supplied

Christmas Magic at Meelup Farmhouse | 1 December

Dunsborough

Christmas has come early to Meelup Farmhouse! Santa and one of his helpful have made it all the way to the South West for you to grab some photos with the whole family – furry fam included. Feeling creative? Join Gemma of LaMyrtle Style House for a wreath-making workshop complete with flowing mimosas and canape-style brunch, too.

Margaret River Christmas Carols | 6 December

Margaret River

Get into the Christmas spirit with friends, family, and the vibrant Margaret River community with Christmas Carols. Singalong to the beautiful voices of up to 250 talented singers and musicians performing your favourite carols at this free event. Food and drinks are available from local food trucks.

Good Day Sunshine | 7 December

Margaret River

A hallmark event in the regional music scene, Good Day Sunshine is once again bringing some of Australia’s most celebrated artists to the Margaret River Region. Join Angus & Julia Stone, Boy & Bear and The Dreggs, plus an exciting lineup of local acts at Glouster Park for an unmissable festival. 

Angus and Julia Stone
Join Angus & Julia Stone, Boy & Bear and The Dreggs, plus an exciting lineup of local acts at Good Day Sunshine. Photo: Angus & Julia Stone

Beerfarm's 9th Birthday | 8 December

Metricup

It’s Beerfarm’s birthday and to celebrate 9 years of slinging beers and cultivating good times, their famous slip-and-slide is making its grand return! Enjoy live tunes from Ben Catley, a whole lot of line dancing, face painting and Mai Tardi Gelato.

Beerfarm
Beerfarm know how to throw a good party. Photo: Supplied

Emma Donovan at The River | 12 December

Margaret River

ARIA-nominated, award-winning singer-songwriter Emma Donovan is bringing her soulful songs and powerful stories to The River. Regularly performing songs in traditional Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages, Emma aims to provide her audiences with an understanding of Country and community.

Celebration of La Joie at Passel Estate | 14 December

Cowaramup

Join Passel Estate as they pop the bottle in celebration of their first sparkling wine ‘La Joie.’ A Cremant style sparkling made from chenin blanc, Passel Estate owners Barry and Wendy invite you to be among the first to try La Joie with a garden party. Expect oysters, Brazilian music and a grazing table ladened with local produce.

Shellfish and Chardonnay at Passel Estate
Passel's picturesque grounds will play host to the summer soiree. Photo: Supplied

Exhibition by Roslyn Hamdorf and Shabbi | 14 December

Yallingup

Catch the work of acclaimed artist Roslyn Hamdorf and ceramicist Shabbi at Yallingup Galleries, in a new exhibition inspired by Western Australia’s iconic landscapes and natural rock formations. Running until 22 December, join in the opening celebrations on Saturday 14 December with wine from Vallee Du Venom and grazing platers.

Lenton Brae New Labels Launch | 14 December

Wilyabrup

Lenton Brae is celebrating the release of their new Wilyabrup Labels. They’ve dug into their heritage and brought forward a modernised feel blended with their history. Be the first to taste Lenton Brae’s new releases, listen to live music and enjoy some beautifully paired canapes.

Lenton Brae
Enjoy fanatstic live music as you taste Lenton Brae’s new release. Photo: Supplied

Twilight Christmas Markets | 23 December

Margaret River

Looking for local produce and ingredients for your Christmas feast? Margaret River Farmer’s Market has you covered! Enjoy the festivities with live music, kid’s activities, beer, and wine tastings alongside the market’s gourmet food and local produce options.

Christmas Day Lunch at Abbey Resort | 25 December

Abbey

Join Abbey Beach Resort’s annual Christmas Day Lunch Buffet and celebrate the season with a festive spread showcasing the region’s finest produce. Enjoy an array of dishes complemented by a 2-hour beverage package, and for the little ones – a special visit from Santa.

Christmas Lunch at Inara Busselton | 25 December

Busselton

Make Christmas lunch extra special with the superb food, drinks and hospitality of Inara Busselton. Feast on a generous banquet, with a delicious spread of mezze and dishes from the wood fire. 

Inara
Feast on a generous banquet at Inara. Photo: Inara

Summer Festival at Aravina Estate | 27 December - 12 January

Yallingup

Find 17 days of endless fun at Aravina Estate’s Summer Festival. Enjoy daily live music, a fresh summer menu, craft beers at 8Waves Brewing Co., wine tastings at Aravina’s brand-new cellar door, cocktails, and more.

A group of people enjoying drinks under an umbrella at Aravina Estate
Enjoy 17 days of Aravina Estate’s Summer Festival. Photo: Aravina Estate

Vino Paradiso | 27 December

Wilyabrup

Keep the festivities going with Cherubino’s much-loved Vino Paradiso. This year, their new Masseria Restaurant will play host to a day full day of wine, delicious food, live music, and DJs.

Vino Paradiso
Get ready for an all-day wine paradise with Vino Paradiso. Photo: Cherubino Wines

For the Diary

Karnidale Circus Festival | 17 -18 January

Karridale

Equal parts exciting circus and music festival, Karnidale features a variety of international and national circus shows, cabaret performances, live music, DJ sets, workshops, and market stalls. Family-friendly by day with more risqué performances come night.

Performer at Karnidale Circus Festival, Karnidale Margaret River
Karnidale Circus Festival is a carnival experience unlike any other in the world. Photo: Karnidale Festival

Busselton Jetty Swim | 8 February

Busselton

WA’s iconic swim is turning 30! The Busselton Jetty Swim is an annual 3.6km ocean swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty. Entry is open to swimmers of all abilities from novice to professionals, and for those who prefer to stay dry, there are loads of family friendly entertainment and activities all weekend along the Busselton Foreshore, creating a real festival vibe.

Endurance Events - Busselton Jetty Swim
Busselton Jetty Swim is an annual 3.6km ocean swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty. Photo: Busselton Jetty Swim

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